Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To systematically synthesise existing literature and identify supports to promote employee retention in the aged care sector. METHODS: A systematic integrative review was conducted following Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) methodology framework and guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A comprehensive search for studies published between 1997 and 2024 was undertaken across Business Source Complete, CINAHL Complete, Medline Complete and APA PsycInfo (via administration, pastoral and ancillary care workers influencing employee retention in the aged care sector were included), with qualitative findings and statistically significant quantitative data extracted. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and the data were analysed inductively using a thematic approach. RESULTS: Eighteen studies were included in the review, comprising 13 quantitative, four qualitative and one mixed-methods study. The factors and strategies were themed into six areas relating to the retention of the aged care workforce: (1) employee characteristics, stability and well-being, (2) workplace relationships, (3) training opportunities and career growth, (4) recognition, incentive and compensation, (5) organisational structure, culture and resources and (6) value-driven and empowered care practice. CONCLUSIONS: This review identified employee, employer and organisational factors and strategies that influence workforce retention within the aged care sector. While there is a paucity of evidence available, these findings are a critical first step to guide further design, implementation and evaluation of retention strategies to address the challenges of workforce retention in the aged care sector.