Development and acceptability of the Person-centred Observation and Reflection Tool (PORT) for supporting staff and practice development in dementia care services

Background
Observational tools can support understanding of the complex needs of older people with dementia and aid delivery of person-centred care. However, existing tools are complex and resource intensive to use.

Aim
To develop and evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of a low-resource, observational tool to support staff reflection and practice development.

Method
Intervention development of the Person-Centred Observation and Reflection Tool (PORT) and acceptability and feasibility study, using surveys and focus groups in the UK, Norway and Spain.

Findings
PORT was reported as easy, accessible and acceptable to use. Observation was identified as powerful for individual staff development and provided an evidence-based source for underpinning individualised care planning. Potential time challenges associated with implementation were identified.

Conclusion
Initial evaluation indicates PORT is an acceptable and feasible tool for use in health and social care settings for older people. Further research is needed on implementation models and impacts of use.