170 7.2.1 EDI initiatives in the LTC Setting

Negative outcomes with lack of EDI:

• Increased staff turnover and decreased productivity
• Decreased wellbeing and mental health
• Poor patient health outcomes
• Health inequities
• Increased racism and discrimination
• Increased social isolation

Barriers to implementation and integration of EDI principles in the LTC setting:

• Lack of awareness and experience working within diversity
• Unconscious biases and lack of recognition
• Language barriers
• Generational diversity
• Lack of inclusive language
• Lack of engagement of members from diverse groups
• Lack of diverse cultural food options
• Lack of resources^[1]

EDI initiatives in the LTC setting:

• Residents, staff, and visitors are exposed to diversity and the principles of EDI by building awareness – posters, activities, celebrations
• Approaches to facilitate change within LTC organizations
• Education – ongoing learning opportunities for staff and residents
• Offering foods that are specific to an individual’s culture
• Zero tolerance for racism and discrimination – policy and procedure development
• Staff, visitors, and residents are encouraged to reflect and recognize unconscious biases and how these unconscious biases have impacted their relationships with others from different backgrounds (we all have them)