Reconceptualising Dignity-Centred Care for Hospitalised Older Adults: A Discursive Theoretical Analysis Using the Levine’s Conservation Model
Date and Time
Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Theme / Track
Health, medical and integrated care
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Aim: To propose a conceptual model of dignity-centred care for hospitalised older adults using Levine’s Conservation Model as a theoretical framework.
Design: Discursive paper.
Methods: An extensive search of five electronic databases and grey literature was conducted without date restrictions to identify literature on patient dignity, dignified care for hospitalised older adults, and the Levine Conservation Model. Relevant theoretical and empirical literature was analysed to inform the development of the proposed conceptual model.
Results: Dignity is a multidimensional concept encompassing inherent human worth and self-worth developed through personal identity, relationships, and life experiences. Hospitalised older adults are particularly vulnerable to dignity erosion due to complex health conditions, ineffective healthcare professional–patient communication, insufficient health information, reduced autonomy, compromised privacy, and structural and systemic barriers within healthcare settings. Key components of dignity-centred care include respect, autonomy, privacy, effective symptom management, clear communication, and active patient involvement in decision-making. The proposed conceptual model integrates Levine’s principles of conservation; energy, structural integrity, personal integrity, and social integrity into a dignity-centred care framework. The model identifies common threats to dignity experienced by hospitalised older adults and outlines practical care strategies aimed at preserving and restoring dignity.
Conclusion: The proposed model provides a practical, theory-informed framework to guide healthcare professionals in delivering care that protects and promotes the dignity and well-being of hospitalised older adults.
Impact: This work addresses conceptual ambiguity and practice gaps surrounding dignity-centred care by offering a structured approach to integrating dignity principles into routine clinical practice, with implications for clinical education, policy development, and quality improvement in geriatric care.
Keywords
Evidence Based Policy, Evidence Based Practice, Models of Care
Authors
Professor Helen Rawson, Monash Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Dr Lenore Ley, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
Adjunct Professor Bernice Redley, Health Complaints Commissioner, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Associate Professor Debra Kerr, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia