Unlearning for progress: Why retirement living managers must rethink to rebuild

At first glance, unlearning might seem like an odd message from DCM Institute.

Think about it. Resident expectations, technology, and service models are changing rapidly. To move forward, we must first question what we think we know.

So then, what is unlearning?

Unlearning is about letting go of outdated beliefs, behaviours or assumptions.

These are the things that in our working life, when questioned, trigger a verbal response of “that’s the way we have always done it.” These things no longer serve us, our business environment or our customer.

Take the belief: “Managers must have all the answers.” When we unlearn this, we create space for collaboration, shared problem-solving, and faster progress.

Why does this matter now?

1. Resident expectations are shifting
   Earlier this year we dedicated an entire series of Professional Development Days to Great Expectation Management. As we discussed across the country, our residents desire autonomy. They want to retain purpose and have choice. Our value proposition is not simply comfort and care.

Residents are more tech-savvy, health-conscious and independent than ever.

2. Innovation requires flexibility
   As we mentioned above, holding onto “how we’ve always done it” can block progress.

Letting go of the past and unlearning enables us to respond faster to emerging trends, be it that new system integration from head office, or a wellness offering to our residents.

3. Great leaders keep learning
   We advocate for this at every chance we get. We firmly believe being a Village Professional in 2025, and beyond, requires self-discipline to learning. From reading articles (such as this – well done), through to topics in our knowledge centre or attending our networking events, having a curious mind is a good thing.

Managers who lead with curiosity and humility foster cultures where change is welcomed, not feared.

How to start unlearning

• Challenge assumptions
  Ask: Are our practices still serving our residents? Involve your team in questioning “sacred cows.”
• Create psychological safety
  Make it safe to explore, test, and sometimes fail—this is where real growth happens.
• Try reverse mentoring
  Invite younger staff or tech-savvy residents to share their perspectives. New voices can highlight hidden blind spots.
• Schedule time to reflect
  After key decisions or events, ask: What worked? What didn’t? What should we rethink?
• Align with purpose
  Focus on what your community is trying to achieve. What beliefs might be standing in the way?

The payoff

• Happier residents
  When old routines are replaced with co-designed experiences, residents feel seen, heard, and empowered.
• Stronger teams
  Curious, questioning teams are more engaged, collaborative, and innovative.
• Future-ready leadership
  Unlearning helps managers anticipate change—not just react to it.
• Renewed energy and innovation
  Letting go of what no longer works clears the way for creativity and purpose.
• Greater trust
  Residents notice when a community evolves with them. That builds confidence, respect, and loyalty.

Be bold enough to rethink

To unlearn is to lead. You are uniquely placed to shape the future of ageing in Australia—not by clinging to the past, but by having the courage to leave parts of it behind.

So ask yourself: What is one belief I can unlearn this week?