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Carson DB, Johansson AB, Schaumberg M, Hurtig AK. Addressing the workforce crisis in (rural) social care: A scoping review. Int J Health Plann Manage 2024; 39:806-823. [PMID: 38297468 DOI: 10.1002/hpm.3774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This scoping review identifies strategies potentially addressing the 'workforce crisis' in rural social care. The increasing global demand for social care has been coupled with widely recognised challenges in recruiting and retaining sufficient staff to provide this care. While the social care workforce crisis is a global phenomenon, it is particularly acute in rural areas. METHODS The review identified 75 papers which (i) had been published since 2017, (ii) were peer reviewed, (iii) concerned social care, (iv) were relevant to rural settings, (v) referenced workforce shortages, and (vi) made recommendations for ways to address those shortages. Thematic synthesis was used to derive three analytical themes with a combined 17 sub-themes applying to recommended strategies and evidence supporting those strategies. RESULTS The most common strategies for addressing social care workforce shortages were to improve recruitment and retention ('recruit and retain') processes without materially changing the workforce composition or service models. Further strategies involved 'revitalising' the social care workforce through redeploying existing staff or identifying new sources of labour. A small number of strategies involved 're-thinking' social care service models more fundamentally. Very few papers specifically considered how these strategies might apply to rural contexts, and evidence for the effectiveness of strategies was sparse. CONCLUSION The review identifies a significant gap in the literature in relation to workforce innovation and placed-based studies in rural social care systems. It is unlikely that the social care workforce crisis can be addressed through continuing attempts to recruit and retain workers within existing service models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dean B Carson
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Mia Schaumberg
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anna-Karin Hurtig
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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2
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Nadash P. The State of Family Caregiving Policy. J Aging Soc Policy 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38626336 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2024.2339177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
As the population ages and supportive services are increasingly delivered in home- and community-based settings, greater demands are placed on family caregivers. This essay introducing the special issue of the Journal of Aging and Social Policy discusses signs of progress on policies to ease the burden on family caregivers. It introduces a series of articles that reflect the growing body of research on caregiver-related policy actions. These actions range from expanding access to paid family leave and payment for providing care, to ensuring access to better data about family caregivers and improving the post- hospital discharge experiences of rural and underserved caregivers. It also explores a major conundrum around caregiving policy - why progress on family caregiving policy has been so slow, despite its clear importance to the health and welfare of those who receive supports, as well as to those providing supports. In addition, the essay discusses developments, such as Biden administration actions and the RAISE Family Caregiver Advisory Council, indicating that the political dynamic around caregiving has changed, concluding that this is a uniquely hopeful time for family caregiver-related policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Nadash
- Department of Gerontology, Donna M and Robert J Manning College of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
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3
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Wachtel LE, Escher J, Halladay A, Lutz A, Satriale GM, Westover A, Lopez-Arvizu C. Profound Autism: An Imperative Diagnosis. Pediatr Clin North Am 2024; 71:301-313. [PMID: 38423722 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcl.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Profound autism refers to a subset of individuals with autism spectrum disorder who have an intellectual disability with an intelligence quotient less than 50 and minimal-to-no language and require 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living. The general pediatrician will invariably work with autistic children across the spectrum and will likely encounter youth with profound autism. Awareness of profound autism as a real entity describing autistic children with concomitant intellectual disability and language impairment who require 24-hour care is the first step in developing a solid pediatric home for these youth.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jill Escher
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Alycia Halladay
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Amy Lutz
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Gloria M Satriale
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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4
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Heijkants CH, De Wind A, Van Hooff MLM, Geurts SAE, Boot CRL. Sustainable employability of long-term care staff in self-managing teams: A qualitative study. J Adv Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38516849 DOI: 10.1111/jan.16161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
AIM To discover what long-term care (LTC) staff working in self-managing teams consider necessary to remain sustainably employable. DESIGN Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews. METHODS In 2020, semi-structured interviews were conducted one-on-one with 25 LTC workers from a medium-large Dutch organization providing long-term care. All interviews were audio-recorded, anonymously transcribed verbatim and analysed with thematic content analysis in the software program Atlas.ti. RESULTS LTC workers indicated a need for autonomy. They wanted their control and involvement in decisions to be strengthened. Furthermore, LTC workers indicated a need for relatedness, by experiencing support, a feeling of togetherness and more time to have attention for the residents. Lastly, LTC workers expressed a need for (assistance in) further developing their competence. CONCLUSION In order to remain willing and able to work, LTC workers in self-managing teams want their needs for autonomy, relatedness and competence to be addressed. Working conditions are important to these LTC workers' sustainable employability since they can hinder or promote the satisfaction of their needs. IMPLICATIONS It is important that management in LTC is aware of the importance of LTC workers' needs for sustainable employability. We recommend that management critically reflect on and invest in addressing these needs by enhancing indicators and limiting inhibitors of the needs. IMPACT A robust LTC workforce is necessary to provide care to the aging population. In the context of the increasing implementation of self-managing teams in LTC organizations, understanding what workers in self-managing teams need in order to remain sustainably employable is crucial. For sustainable employability (i.e. to remain willing and able to work), interviewees indicated a need for autonomy, relatedness, and competence. Nearly all participants stressed the importance of belonging and feeling connected. Working conditions seemed to relate not only directly to the sustainable employability of LTC staff but also indirectly through their lack of contribution to the satisfaction of workers' psychological needs. The outcomes of this study primarily impact workers and management within LTC organizations with self-managing teams. They benefit from recognizing the significance of addressing workers' needs to ensure their essential and sustainable employability in the sector. REPORTING METHOD The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research and the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative (COREQ) research were used. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Two LTC workers provided advice and feedback regarding the materials and set up of the interviews. These two ambassadors additionally helped in reaching our population, by disseminating information about the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceciel H Heijkants
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Astrid De Wind
- Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Madelon L M Van Hooff
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Psychology, Open Universiteit, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine A E Geurts
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Cécile R L Boot
- Behavioural Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Societal Participation and Health, Amsterdam Public Health research institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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5
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Ginsburg LR, Easterbrook A, Massie A, Berta W, Doupe M, Hoben M, Norton P, Reid C, Song Y, Wagg A, Estabrooks C. Building a Program Theory of Implementation Using Process Evaluation of a Complex Quality Improvement Trial in Nursing Homes. Gerontologist 2024; 64:gnad064. [PMID: 37263265 PMCID: PMC10825831 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnad064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Significant quality problems exist in long-term care (LTC). Interventions to improve care are complex and often have limited success. Implementation remains a black box. We developed a program theory explaining how implementation of a complex intervention occurs in LTC settings-examining mechanisms of impact, effects of context on implementation, and implementation outcomes such as fidelity. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Concurrent process evaluation of Safer Care for Older Persons in residential Environments (SCOPE)-a frontline worker (care aide) led improvement trial in 31 Canadian LTC homes. Using a mixed-methods exploratory sequential design, qualitative data were analyzed using grounded theory to develop a conceptual model illustrating how teams implemented the intervention and how it produced change. Quantitative analyses (mixed-effects regression) tested aspects of the program theory. RESULTS Implementation fidelity was moderate. Implementation is facilitated by (a) care aide engagement with core intervention components; (b) supportive leadership (internal facilitation) to create positive team dynamics and help negotiate competing workplace priorities; (c) shifts in care aide role perceptions and power differentials. Mixed-effects model results suggest intervention acceptability, perceived intervention benefits, and leadership support predict implementation fidelity. When leadership support is high, fidelity is high regardless of intervention acceptability or perceived benefits. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS Our program theory addresses important knowledge gaps regarding implementation of complex interventions in nursing homes. Results can guide scaling of complex interventions and future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liane R Ginsburg
- School of Health Policy & Management, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adam Easterbrook
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Outcome Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ariane Massie
- School of Kinesiology & Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Whitney Berta
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malcolm Doupe
- Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Matthias Hoben
- School of Health Policy & Management, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter Norton
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Colin Reid
- School of Health and Exercise Science, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yuting Song
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Adrian Wagg
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carole Estabrooks
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Mauldin L, Defelice C. The Invisible Frontline: Experiences of Spousal Caregivers During COVID-19. J Appl Gerontol 2024; 43:160-169. [PMID: 37922207 DOI: 10.1177/07334648231205414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Spousal caregivers are a largely invisible population of unpaid long-term care providers in the United States. This paper examines their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic by drawing on data from 96 virtual and phone interviews with 44 spousal caregivers cohabitating with an ill partner across 22 states between June and December 2020. Findings show caregivers 1) adjusted care practices related to food and supply deliveries, socializing online, and infection control; 2) experienced impacts on care, including the loss of home health aides and reduced outpatient care; and 3) experienced emotional distress due to isolation, increased care demands, and resulting heightened anxiety and stress. These findings indicate specific types of ongoing resources caregivers may continue to need as the pandemic wanes, such as access to online support, a more robust infrastructure for food delivery, and planning for an increased projected shortage of home health aides.
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Morris ME, Thwaites C, Lui R, McPhail SM, Haines T, Kiegaldie D, Heng H, Shaw L, Hammond S, McKercher JP, Knight M, Carey LM, Gray R, Shorr R, Hill AM. Preventing hospital falls: feasibility of care workforce redesign to optimise patient falls education. Age Ageing 2024; 53:afad250. [PMID: 38275097 PMCID: PMC10811524 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afad250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the feasibility of using allied health assistants to deliver patient falls prevention education within 48 h after hospital admission. DESIGN AND SETTING Feasibility study with hospital patients randomly allocated to usual care or usual care plus additional patient falls prevention education delivered by supervised allied health assistants using an evidence-based scripted conversation and educational pamphlet. PARTICIPANTS (i) allied health assistants and (ii) patients admitted to participating hospital wards over a 20-week period. OUTCOMES (i) feasibility of allied health assistant delivery of patient education; (ii) hospital falls per 1,000 bed days; (iii) injurious falls; (iv) number of falls requiring transfer to an acute medical facility. RESULTS 541 patients participated (median age 81 years); 270 control group and 271 experimental group. Allied health assistants (n = 12) delivered scripted education sessions to 254 patients in the experimental group, 97% within 24 h after admission. There were 32 falls in the control group and 22 in the experimental group. The falls rate was 8.07 falls per 1,000 bed days in the control group and 5.69 falls per 1,000 bed days for the experimental group (incidence rate ratio = 0.66 (95% CI 0.32, 1.36; P = 0.26)). There were 2.02 injurious falls per 1,000 bed days for the control group and 1.03 for the experimental group. Nine falls (7 control, 2 experimental) required transfer to an acute facility. No adverse events were attributable to the experimental group intervention. CONCLUSIONS It is feasible and of benefit to supplement usual care with patient education delivered by allied health assistants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg E Morris
- Academic and Research Collaborative in Health (ARCH), and Care Economy Research Institute (CERI), La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope, Glen Waverley, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Claire Thwaites
- Academic and Research Collaborative in Health (ARCH), and Care Economy Research Institute (CERI), La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope, Glen Waverley, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rosalie Lui
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope, Glen Waverley, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven M McPhail
- Australian Centre for Health Services Innovation and Centre for Healthcare Transformation, School of Public Health and Social Work, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Digital Health and Informatics Directorate, Metro South Health, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Terry Haines
- School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Debra Kiegaldie
- Faculty of Health Sciences & Community Studies, Holmesglen Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Hazel Heng
- Northern Health Academic and Research Collaborative in Health (ARCH), La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Northern Health, Epping, VIC, Australia
| | - Louise Shaw
- Academic and Research Collaborative in Health (ARCH), and Care Economy Research Institute (CERI), La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Susan Hammond
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope, Glen Waverley, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jonathan P McKercher
- Academic and Research Collaborative in Health (ARCH), and Care Economy Research Institute (CERI), La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Matthew Knight
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope, Glen Waverley, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Leeanne M Carey
- Occupational Therapy, Department of Community and Clinical Health, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Neurorehabilitation and Recovery, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard Gray
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ron Shorr
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Anne-Marie Hill
- School of Allied Health, Western Australian Centre for Health & Ageing, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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White D, Hasworth S. "They Don't Have Time, But It Would Be Wonderful": Residents' Views of Their Relationships With Staff. J Gerontol Nurs 2023; 49:8-14. [PMID: 37906045 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20231010-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Resident-staff relationships is a component of person-centered care (PCC); positive relationships are associated with positive outcomes. The current article explores the finding that residents living in different types of long-term care assigned the lowest ratings of importance to the PCC domain "relationships with staff " (one of eight domains studied). Thematic analysis of spontaneous comments made by residents during interviews identified two themes, Relationship Preferences (for privacy, boundaries, engagement) and Lived Experience With Staff (staff busyness, staff interactions). Low ratings of relationship importance may reflect preferences for privacy and maintaining boundaries with staff. Ratings by some residents may be related to staff busyness, an overarching theme. Staff busyness was associated with lack of personal interaction with staff, including for those who expressed preferences for engagement and those who described positive interactions with staff. Some residents may reappraise their views about the importance of relationships to reduce cognitive dissonance. Improving job quality is necessary to assure quality time with residents. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 49(11), 8-14.].
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Fabius CD, Wec A, Saylor MA, Smith JM, Gallo JJ, Wolff JL. "Caregiving is teamwork…" Information sharing in home care for older adults with disabilities living in the community. Geriatr Nurs 2023; 54:171-177. [PMID: 37788565 PMCID: PMC10833061 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2023.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM We examined information sharing between direct care workers, family caregivers, and clinicians involved in the care of older adults with disabilities. METHODS Semi-structured interviews with N = 11 representatives of home care agencies ("residential service agencies" in Maryland). RESULTS Work system and process characteristics relevant to information sharing included: (1) using electronic management systems and patient portals to communicate within agencies and with clinicians, (2) implementing tools to gather information about client goals, preferences, and routines, and (3) relying on family members for information about clients' needs. Participants did not report differences in dementia-related care coordination; however, dementia-related adaptations involved additional considerations for navigating relationships with family and standardizing processes to communicate with clinicians. CONCLUSION Findings highlight care demands experienced by direct care workers and support calls to better coordinate information sharing between interdisciplinary care teams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanee D Fabius
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 441-B, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States.
| | - Aleksandra Wec
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 441-B, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | | | - Jamie M Smith
- Johns Hopkins School of Nursing, 525N Wolfe St, Baltimore MD 21205, United States
| | - Joseph J Gallo
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 441-B, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
| | - Jennifer L Wolff
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 624 North Broadway, Room 441-B, Baltimore, MD 21205, United States
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10
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Song Y, Bolt S, Thorne T, Norton P, Poss J, Fu F, Squires J, Cummings G, Estabrooks CA. Nursing assistants' use of best practices and pain in older adults living in nursing homes. J Am Geriatr Soc 2023; 71:3413-3423. [PMID: 37565426 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.18527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inadequate pain management persists in nursing homes. Nursing assistants provide the most direct care in nursing homes, and significantly improving the quality of care requires their adoption of best care practices informed by the best available evidence. We assessed the association between nursing assistants' use of best practices and residents' pain levels. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional analysis of data collected between September 2019 and February 2020 from a stratified random sample of 87 urban nursing homes in western Canada. We linked administrative data (the Resident Assessment Instrument-Minimum Data Set [RAI-MDS], 2.0) for 10,093 residents and survey data for 3547 nursing assistants (response rate: 74.2%) at the care unit level. Outcome of interest was residents' pain level, measured by the pain scale derived from RAI-MDS, 2.0. The exposure variable was nursing assistants' use of best practices, measured with validated self-report scales and aggregated to the unit level. Two-level random-intercept multinomial logistic regression accounted for the clustering effect of residents within care units. Covariates included resident demographics and clinical characteristics and characteristics of nursing assistants, unit, and nursing home. RESULTS Of the residents, 3305 (30.3%) were identified as having pain. On resident care units with higher levels of best practice use among nursing assistants, residents had 32% higher odds of having mild pain (odds ratio, 1.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.01-1.71; p = 0.040), compared with residents on care units with lower levels of best practice use among nursing assistants. The care units did not differ in reported moderate or severe pain among residents. CONCLUSIONS We observed that higher unit-level best practice use among nursing assistants was associated with mild resident pain. This association warrants further research to identify key individual and organizational factors that promote effective pain assessment and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Song
- School of Nursing, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Sascha Bolt
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Trina Thorne
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Peter Norton
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Jeff Poss
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - Fangfang Fu
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Janet Squires
- School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Greta Cummings
- College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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11
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Abstract
The current global age-friendly movement supports older adults by promoting different policies and services. However, there is a dearth of attention to nursing home (NH) residents as part of age-friendly movements. The pioneering idea of an age-friendly health system, i.e., the "4 Ms" model is significant for NHs and formative for further developments; however, it does not identify unique components of NH care. This article aims to identify specific aspects of person-centered care in the literature to advance the development of a standardized conceptual framework. Along with residents, NH staff and administrators are integral parts of NHs. Incorporating the central role of caregivers, this study proposes a new "8 Ms" framework to describe the age-friendly NH. The traditional 4 Ms model notes that everything related to care matters to residents, along with care related to medication, mobility, and mentation. The proposed age-friendly framework introduces five additional "M," i.e., meaningful care, motivation, moderation, modification, and monitoring. This framework is proposed to advance education, training, clinical practice, research, and advocacy to promote quality of care in NHs. Application of the 8 Ms framework may yield multiple benefits, assuring good quality of care to residents, caregivers' job satisfaction, and supporting NH management in providing residents optimal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kallol Kumar Bhattacharyya
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- College of Nursing & Health Sciences, Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona, Florida, USA
| | - Victor Molinari
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Kathy Black
- School of Aging Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Susan Krauss Whitbourne
- Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
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12
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Truskinovsky Y, Wiemers EE. Paid care among older adults with long-term care needs declined in the first year of COVID-19 while families stepped in. Health Aff Sch 2023; 1:qxad040. [PMID: 38756748 PMCID: PMC10986229 DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxad040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Separate strands of research have documented impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes and among paid and family caregivers, yet there is little evidence connecting changes in the residential decisions of older adults with the provision of paid and family care, limiting our ability to identify potential substitutions and gaps in care. Using the 2020 wave of the Health and Retirement Study linked to county-level COVID-19 mortality rates, we found that, among older adults with long-term care needs, higher county-level mortality rates were associated with a decline in nursing home residence and an increase in co-residence with adult children. These changes were coupled with a decline in the likelihood of receiving paid care and in the number of paid caregivers and an increase in the hours of unpaid care received. This analysis documents a reduction in nursing home residence and paid care during the first year of the pandemic and shows that families filled some of the resulting care gaps. Policymaking around long-term care should consider whether declines in the use of paid care are permanent and how they will affect the health of older Americans and their caregivers over the next decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulya Truskinovsky
- Department of Economics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, United States
| | - Emily E Wiemers
- Department of Public Administration and International Affairs, Syracuse University,Syracuse, NY, 13244, United States
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13
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Kunkle R, Chaperon C, Popejoy LL, Struwe L, Wengel S, Berger AM. Understanding Formal Caregiver Burden in Nursing Assistants in Nursing Homes: A Mixed Methods Approach. Res Gerontol Nurs 2023; 16:231-240. [PMID: 37450780 DOI: 10.3928/19404921-20230706-02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The current study aimed to describe formal caregiver burden of nursing assistants in nursing homes. A descriptive, cross-sectional, convergent mixed methods approach identified attributes of formal caregiver burden using phenomenological interviews and established self-report measures. Themes included nursing assistants' experiences of stress, close relationships, extensive assistance of residents, balancing needs and routines, and feeling accomplished. Self-report measures demonstrated moderate stress, moderate caring behaviors, responsibility, and competence. MDS 3.0 results showed moderate cognitive impairment, minimal depressive symptoms, and decreased functional status of residents. The mixed methods synthesis confirmed the presence of five attributes of formal caregiver burden: perceived stress, caring for another, dependency of the older adult, responsibility, and competence. Burnout was not confirmed. Future investigation of attributes among a larger, diverse sample of nursing assistants, residents, and nursing homes will advance knowledge and inform research design and methods of interventions. [Research in Gerontological Nursing, 16(5), 231-240.].
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14
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Fong MC, Russell D, Gao O, Franzosa E. Contextual Forces Shaping Home-Based Health Care Services Between 2010 and 2020: Insights From the Social-Ecological Model and Organizational Theory. Gerontologist 2023; 63:1117-1128. [PMID: 35921664 PMCID: PMC9384634 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Demands for home-based care have surged alongside population aging, preferences for aging in place, policy-driven reforms incentivizing lower hospital utilization, and public concerns around coronavirus disease 2019 transmissions in institutional care settings. However, at both macro and micro levels, sociopolitical, and infrastructural contexts are not aligned with the operational needs of home health care organizations, presenting obstacles to home health care equity. We integrate the social-ecological model and organizational theory to highlight contextual forces shaping the delivery of home-based care services between 2010 and 2020. Placing home-based health care organizations at the center of observation, we discuss patterns and trends of service delivery as systematic organizational behaviors reflecting the organizations' adaptations and responses to their surrounding forces. In this light, we consider the implications of provision and access to home care services for health equity, discuss topics that are understudied, and provide recommendations for home-based health care organizations to advance home health care equity. The article represents a synthesis of recent literature and our research and industry experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Chia Fong
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, VNS Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - David Russell
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, VNS Health, New York, USA
- Department of Sociology, Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina, USA
| | - Oude Gao
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, VNS Health, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emily Franzosa
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, USA
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15
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Siple A. The ABCD approach for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia. Nursing 2023; 53:24-28. [PMID: 37471361 PMCID: PMC10355332 DOI: 10.1097/01.nurse.0000942784.14340.1f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with dementia, often referred to as unwanted behaviors, are one of the most difficult aspects of this disorder for caregivers to navigate. This article presents strategies to manage dementia-related neuropsychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Siple
- Amy Siple is a national speaker on healthcare issues that impact older adults and the empowerment of healthcare givers. She has served the primary care needs of residents in long-term care as an NP for over 2 decades
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16
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Lee S, Oh G. Working Conditions Affecting Home Care Workers' Stress and Turnover Intention. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:717-727. [PMID: 36598124 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221148163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study explored how working conditions influence the psychological outcomes of paid family and non-family home care workers, focusing on the interaction between institutional and recipient effects. Using data from the 2019 Korean Long-Term Care Survey (N = 998), we performed regression analyses on home care workers' stress and turnover intention. For both types of home care-workers, inadequate working conditions and high occupational hazards influenced stress, while good working conditions and low occupational hazards influenced turnover intention. Overall, the findings suggest that wages, working hours, and work intensity must be reformed in a home care-worker-friendly manner; the wages for home care workers must be raised to a level appropriate to their care work; the services provided by home care workers should be explicitly stipulated; and, to eliminate occupational hazards, environments for fostering cordial relationships between recipients and home care workers must be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samsik Lee
- Institute of Aging Society, 26716Hanyang University, Seongdong-gu, Korea.,Department of Policy, 26716Hanyang University, Seongdong-gu, Korea
| | - Gyeongrim Oh
- Department of Active Aging Industry, 26716Hanyang University, Seongdong-gu, Korea
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17
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Russell D, Onorato N, Stern A, Vergez S, Oberlink M, Luebke M, Feldman PH, McDonald MV, Sterling MR. A Qualitative Study of Home Health Aides' Perspectives towards COVID-19 Vaccination. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:660-669. [PMID: 36210760 PMCID: PMC9548484 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221130677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Home health aides provide care to homebound older adults and those with chronic conditions. Aides were less likely to receive COVID-19 vaccines when they became available. We examined aides' perspectives towards COVID-19 vaccination. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 56 home health aides at a large not-for-profit home care agency in New York City. Results suggested that aides' vaccination decisions were shaped by (1) information sources, beliefs, their health, and experiences providing care during COVID-19; (2) perceived susceptibility and severity of COVID-19; (3) perceived benefits of vaccination including protection from COVID-19, respect from colleagues and patients, and fulfillment of work-related requirements; (4) perceived barriers to vaccination including concerns about safety, efficacy, and side effects; and (5) cues to action including access to vaccination sites/appointments, vaccination mandates, question and answer sessions from trusted sources, and testimonials. Providing tailored information with support to address vaccination barriers could lead to improved vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Russell
- Department of Sociology, 1801Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, USA
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicole Onorato
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexis Stern
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sasha Vergez
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mia Oberlink
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Penny H Feldman
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Madeline R Sterling
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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18
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Russell D, Burgdorf JG, Washington KT, Schmitz J, Bowles KH. "Second set of eyes:" Family caregivers and post-acute home health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patient Educ Couns 2023; 109:107627. [PMID: 36638714 PMCID: PMC9830895 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore how the COVID-19 pandemic shaped the experiences of family caregivers of older adults who were hospitalized with COVID-19 and discharged to post-acute, skilled home health care (HHC) services. METHODS Thirty semi-structured interviews with family caregivers of older adults who received services from a large, not-for-profit HHC agency following hospitalization with COVID-19 infection were conducted between March-July 2021 and analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS During the pandemic, family caregivers encountered societal and institutional barriers to assisting older adults across post-acute care transitions. These barriers included hospital visitation restrictions as well as difficulties accessing community-based resources and medical equipment. Despite limitations and delays in HHC services, many family caregivers identified post-acute HHC, delivered in-person or via telehealth, as important to addressing care gaps for older adults, as well as their own needs for training and support during the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Policies intended to reduce the spread of COVID-19 introduced new challenges for caregivers during HHC. However, HHC agencies and their staff adapted within this context to provide a needed bridge of support.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Russell
- Appalachian State University Department of Sociology, Boone, NC, USA; Center for Home Care Policy & Research at VNS Health, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Julia G Burgdorf
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research at VNS Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - Karla T Washington
- Division of Palliative Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jennifer Schmitz
- Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Edwardsville, IL, USA
| | - Kathryn H Bowles
- Center for Home Care Policy & Research at VNS Health, New York, NY, USA; University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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19
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Reckrey JM, Perez S, Watman D, Ornstein KA, Russell D, Franzosa E. The Need for Stability in Paid Dementia Care: Family Caregiver Perspectives. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:607-616. [PMID: 35512123 PMCID: PMC9636070 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221097692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Paid caregivers (e.g., home health aides, home care workers) provide essential care to people with dementia living at home; this study explored family caregiver perspectives on the role and impact of paid caregivers in home-based dementia care. We conducted semi-structured interviews with family caregivers (n = 15) of people with advanced dementia who received long-term paid care at home in New York between October 2020 and December 2020. We found that given the vulnerability resulting from advanced dementia, family caregivers prioritized finding the "right" paid caregivers and valued continuity in the individual providing care. The stable paid care that resulted improved outcomes for both the person with advanced dementia (e.g., eating better) and their family (e.g., ability to work). Those advocating for high quality, person-centered dementia care should partner with policymakers and home care agencies to promote the stability of well-matched paid caregivers for people with advanced dementia living at home.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sasha Perez
- 5925Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deborah Watman
- 5925Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Emily Franzosa
- 5925Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.,20071James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
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20
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Wagg A, Hoben M, Ginsburg L, Doupe M, Berta W, Song Y, Norton P, Knopp-Sihota J, Estabrooks C. Safer Care for Older Persons in (residential) Environments (SCOPE): a pragmatic controlled trial of a care aide-led quality improvement intervention. Implement Sci 2023; 18:9. [PMID: 36991434 PMCID: PMC10054219 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-022-01259-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increased complexity of residents and increased needs for care in long-term care (LTC) have not been met with increased staffing. There remains a need to improve the quality of care for residents. Care aides, providers of the bulk of direct care, are well placed to contribute to quality improvement efforts but are often excluded from so doing. This study examined the effect of a facilitation intervention enabling care aides to lead quality improvement efforts and improve the use of evidence-informed best practices. The eventual goal was to improve both the quality of care for older residents in LTC homes and the engagement and empowerment of care aides in leading quality improvement efforts. METHODS Intervention teams participated in a year-long facilitative intervention which supported care aide-led teams to test changes in care provision to residents using a combination of networking and QI education meetings, and quality advisor and senior leader support. This was a controlled trial with random selection of intervention clinical care units matched 1:1 post hoc with control units. The primary outcome, between group change in conceptual research use (CRU), was supplemented by secondary staff- and resident-level outcome measures. A power calculation based upon pilot data effect sizes resulted in a sample size of 25 intervention sites. RESULTS The final sample included 32 intervention care units matched to 32 units in the control group. In an adjusted model, there was no statistically significant difference between intervention and control units for CRU or in secondary staff outcomes. Compared to baseline, resident-adjusted pain scores were statistically significantly reduced (less pain) in the intervention group (p=0.02). The level of resident dependency significantly decreased statistically for residents whose teams addressed mobility (p<0.0001) compared to baseline. CONCLUSIONS The Safer Care for Older Persons in (residential) Environments (SCOPE) intervention resulted in a smaller change in its primary outcome than initially expected resulting in a study underpowered to detect a difference. These findings should inform sample size calculations of future studies of this nature if using similar outcome measures. This study highlights the problem with measures drawn from current LTC databases to capture change in this population. Importantly, findings from the trial's concurrent process evaluation provide important insights into interpretation of main trial data, highlight the need for such evaluations of complex trials, and suggest the need to consider more broadly what constitutes "success" in complex interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov , NCT03426072, registered August 02, 2018, first participant site April, 05, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Wagg
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Matthias Hoben
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Liane Ginsburg
- School of Health Policy & Management, Faculty of Health, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malcolm Doupe
- Departments of Community Health Sciences, Emergency Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Whitney Berta
- Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, ON, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yuting Song
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Peter Norton
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jennifer Knopp-Sihota
- Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University & Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carole Estabrooks
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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21
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Pendergrast C, Bethune T, Shah P, Sands T. Supporting Healthy Aging and Older Adult Health: The Role of State and Territorial Health Agencies. J Public Health Manag Pract 2023; 29:274-7. [PMID: 36715599 DOI: 10.1097/PHH.0000000000001707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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22
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McCann BR, Roberto KA, Blieszner R, Savla J, Atkinson E. Vigilance, risk, and service use among caregivers of people living with dementia. Dementia (London) 2023; 22:727-742. [PMID: 36790090 DOI: 10.1177/14713012231156856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this investigation was to understand the dynamics among dementia caregiving, vigilance, and home and community-based service use. METHODS This paper is derived from a larger, mixed-methods study on caregiving. We used a descriptive qualitative approach to analyze interview data of 30 family caregivers of relatives with dementia. RESULTS We found five domains of vigilance in which caregivers felt "on duty": ensuring attentiveness, ensuring safety, ensuring resources, ensuring healthcare, and ensuring closeness. Formal service use did not necessarily give caregivers relief from vigilance, with the language of risk often employed by caregivers. CONCLUSION Because service use could contribute to feelings of vigilance, rather than give caregivers a break from a sense of watchfulness, these findings support calls for dementia-specific training for service providers. In future caregiving research, the relationship between vigilance, caregiver distress, and role captivity should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen A Roberto
- Institute for Society, Culture and Environment and Center for Gerontology, 1757Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Rosemary Blieszner
- College of Architecture, Arts, and Design and Center for Gerontology, 1757Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Jyoti Savla
- Center for Gerontology and Department of Human Development and Family Science, 1757Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
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23
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Song Y, Thorne TE, Duan Y, Cummings G, Norton PG, Squires J, Estabrooks CA. Pre-COVID-19 work-life quality of regulated nurses in Canadian nursing homes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23:148-150. [PMID: 36627104 DOI: 10.1111/ggi.14536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Song
- School of Nursing, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China.,Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Trina E Thorne
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yinfei Duan
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Greta Cummings
- College of Health Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Peter G Norton
- Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Janet Squires
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Lindmark T, Engström M, Trygged S. Psychosocial Work Environment and Well-Being of Direct-Care Staff Under Different Nursing Home Ownership Types: A Systematic Review. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:347-359. [PMID: 36214292 PMCID: PMC9841825 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221131468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
This systematic review investigated the psychosocial work environment and well-being of direct-care staff under different nursing home ownership types. Databases searched: Scopus, Web of Science, Cinahl, and PubMed, 1990-2020. Inclusion criteria: quantitative or mixed-method studies; population: direct-care staff in nursing homes; exposure: for-profit and non-profit ownership; and outcomes: psychosocial work environment and well-being. In total, 3896 articles were screened and 17(n = 12,843 participants) were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools and included in the narrative synthesis. The results were inconsistent, but findings favored non-profit over for-profit settings, for example, regarding leaving intentions, organizational commitment, and stress-related outcomes. There were no clear differences concerning job satisfaction. Job demands were higher in non-profit nursing homes but alleviated by better job resources in one study. The result highlights work environment issues, with regulations concerning for-profit incentives being discussed in terms of staff benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Lindmark
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Social Work, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden,Tomas Lindmark, Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Social work, University of Gävle, Kungsbäcksvägen 47, Gävle 801 76, Sweden.
| | - Maria Engström
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Caring Science, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
| | - Sven Trygged
- Faculty of Health and Occupational Studies, Department of Social Work, University of Gävle, Gävle, Sweden
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25
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Nadash P, Tell EJ, Jansen T. What do Family Caregivers Want? Payment for Providing Care. J Aging Soc Policy 2023:1-15. [PMID: 36688324 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2127599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Although the primary goal of self-directed programs providing long term services and supports (LTSS) is to maximize choice and control for service recipients, such programs may also benefit family caregivers by compensating them for providing supportive services. This study draws on qualitative data from research supporting the RAISE Family Caregiver Advisory Council, finding that family caregivers themselves see the expansion of self-directed programs as a policy priority due to their need for financial security. The request for compensation was the strongest finding, with respondents highlighting the incompatibility of work with caregiving and their inability to rely on the existing paid workforce due to supply and quality issues; the consequences of this loss of earned income were reported as severe. Ultimately, respondents saw payment for providing care as an issue of fairness. This evidence supports the policy case for expanding access to self-directed programs that permit the employment of family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Nadash
- Department of Gerontology and Gerontology Institute, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Eileen J Tell
- Department of Gerontology and Gerontology Institute, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- ET Consulting, LLC
| | - Taylor Jansen
- Department of Gerontology and Gerontology Institute, John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies, University of Massachusetts, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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26
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Downer B, Li CY, Snih SA. Hospitalizations and Emergency Room Admissions by Mexican American Older Adults with and without Dementia and Caregiver Mental Health. J Alzheimers Dis 2023; 91:1185-1195. [PMID: 36565125 PMCID: PMC9946698 DOI: 10.3233/jad-220997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence from predominately non-Hispanic White populations indicates that emergency room (ER) admissions and hospitalizations by older adults with and without dementia are associated with caregiver stress and depressive symptoms. These results may not generalize to Hispanic populations because of cultural differences in caregiving roles, responsibilities, and perspectives about care burden. OBJECTIVE Investigate the association between ER admissions and hospitalizations by Mexican American older adults with and without dementia and symptoms of depression and stress among family caregivers. METHODS Data came from the 2010/11 wave of the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly and Medicare claims files. The final sample included 326 older adults and their caregivers. Negative binomial regression was used to model the association between hospitalizations and ER admissions by older adults in the previous two years and caregivers' depressive symptoms and stress in 2010/11. RESULTS The number of older adult ER admissions and hospitalizations was not associated with caregiver depressive symptoms. Two or more ER admissions (incident rate ratio [IRR] = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.05-1.51) and two or more hospitalizations (IRR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.07-1.61) were associated with significantly higher caregiver stress. Additionally, ER admissions and hospitalizations for a circulatory disease or injury and poisoning were associated with significantly higher caregiver stress. These associations were not modified by the care recipient's dementia status. CONCLUSION Hospitalizations and ER admissions by older Mexican Americans were associated with greater caregiver stress but not depressive symptoms. These associations were similar for caregivers to older adults with and without dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Downer
- Department of Population Health & Health Disparities, School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Sealy Center on Aging, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Chih-Ying Li
- Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Health Professions, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Soham Al Snih
- Department of Population Health & Health Disparities, School of Public and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Sealy Center on Aging, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
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27
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Lai VSK, Yau SY, Lee LYK, Li BSY, Law SSP, Huang S. Caring for Older People during and beyond the COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences of Residential Health Care Workers. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:15287. [PMID: 36430006 PMCID: PMC9692584 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Older people and health care workers in residential care homes are particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As COVID-19 has been spreading around the world for more than two years, the nature of care delivery has been substantially transformed. This study aims at understanding the long-term and ongoing impacts of COVID-19 on the delivery of care in residential care homes. It investigates how the delivery of care has been transformed by the COVID-19 pandemic and how health care workers adapted to these changes from the perspectives of frontline health care workers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted from February to December 2021 with a purposive sample of 30 health care workers from six residential care homes in Hong Kong. Thematic analysis identified three themes, including (1) enhancing infection prevention and control measures; (2) maintaining the psychosocial wellbeing of residents; and (3) developing resilience. Discussions and implications were drawn from these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Sze-Ki Lai
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Sui-Yu Yau
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Linda Yin-King Lee
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Becky Siu-Yin Li
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Susan Sin-Ping Law
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shixin Huang
- Department of Sociology and Social Policy, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, China
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28
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Tyler DA, Squillace MR, Porter KA, Hunter M, Haltermann W. COVID-19 Exacerbated Long-standing Challenges for the Home Care Workforce. J Aging Soc Policy 2022:1-19. [PMID: 36328396 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2022.2136919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to understand staffing challenges faced by home care (including home health) agencies due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the policies and practices put into place by the federal government, state governments, and home care agencies themselves to mitigate these challenges. This study included a review of federal and state policy changes enacted in reaction to the pandemic from March through December 2020, a review of home care agency practices described in media reports, peer-reviewed literature, and gray literature focused on responses to workforce challenges encountered during the pandemic, and interviews with a variety of stakeholders. Some of the challenges encountered were entirely new and resulted directly from the pandemic. In other cases, the pandemic worsened long-standing challenges in the industry. States and the federal government addressed some of these issues through changes to policies, regulations, and guidance. Home care agencies also responded with changes to their own policies and practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie R Squillace
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, Office of Behavioral Health, Disability, and Aging Policy
| | | | | | - William Haltermann
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, Office of Behavioral Health, Disability, and Aging Policy
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Crowley R, Atiq O, Hilden D. Long-Term Services and Supports for Older Adults: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians. Ann Intern Med 2022; 175:1172-1174. [PMID: 35816710 DOI: 10.7326/m22-0864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of Americans aged 65 years or older is expected to increase in the coming decades. Because the risk for disability increases with age, more persons will need long-term services and supports (LTSS) to help with bathing, eating, dressing, and other everyday tasks. Long-term services and supports are delivered in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, the person's home, and other settings. However, the LTSS sector faces several challenges, including keeping patients and staff safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, workforce shortages, quality problems, and fragmented coverage options. In this position paper, the American College of Physicians offers policy recommendations on LTSS coverage, financing, workforce, safety and quality, and emergency preparedness and calls on policymakers and other stakeholders to reform and improve the LTSS sector so that care is high quality, accessible, equitable, and affordable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Crowley
- American College of Physicians, Washington, DC (R.C.)
| | - Omar Atiq
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas (O.A.)
| | - David Hilden
- Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota (D.H.)
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Tyler DA, Kordomenos C, Ingber MJ. Reducing Hospitalizations Among Nursing Facility Residents: Policy Environment and Suggestions for the Future in Seven States. J Gerontol Nurs 2022; 48:10-16. [PMID: 35914083 DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20220629-03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The current study examined the policy and market context existing in the seven states where the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Initiative to Reduce Avoidable Hospitalizations among Nursing Facility Residents took place. Stakeholder organizations with knowledge of the skilled nursing facility environment but who were not directly involved with the CMS Initiative were interviewed to assess the impact of policies and programs affecting transfers to the hospital from long-term care facilities. Focused interviews were used to identify areas of quality improvement as well as market forces that contributed to hospitalization rates. Interviews were qualitatively coded and emerging patterns and themes were identified. Market pressures were similar across states. Few policies were found that may have affected the Initiative, but most states had regional coalitions focused on improving some aspect of care. When asked what else could be done to reduce hospitalizations among nursing facility residents, participants across the stakeholder organizations suggested greater presence of physicians and nurse practitioners in nursing facilities, better training around behavioral health issues for frontline staff, and more advance care planning and education for families regarding end of life. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 48(8), 10-16.].
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Degavre F, Kieffer S, Bol D, Dekimpe R, Desterbecq C, Pirson T, Sandu G, Tubeuf S. Searching for Sustainability in Health Systems: Toward a Multidisciplinary Evaluation of Mobile Health Innovations. Sustainability 2022; 14:5286. [DOI: 10.3390/su14095286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mobile health (mHealth) innovations are considered by governments as game changers toward more sustainable health systems. The existing literature focuses on the clinical aspects of mHealth but lacks an integrated framework on its sustainability. The foundational idea for this paper is to include disciplinary complementarities into a multi-dimensional vision to evaluate the non-clinical aspects of mHealth innovations. We performed a targeted literature review to find how the sustainability of mHealth innovations was appraised in each discipline. We found that each discipline considers a different outcome of interest and adopts different time horizons and perspectives for the evaluation. This article reflects on how the sustainability of mHealth innovation can be assessed at both the level of the device itself as well as the level of the health system. We identify some of the challenges ahead of researchers working on mobile health innovations in contributing to shaping a more sustainable health system.
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Russell D, Fong MC, Gao O, Lowenstein D, Haas M, Wiggins F, Brickner C, Franzosa E. Formative Evaluation of a Workforce Investment Organization to Provide Scaled Training for Home Health Aides Serving Managed Long-Term Care Plan Clients in New York State. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1710-1721. [PMID: 35420904 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221084182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of its Medicaid program restructuring, New York State funded 11 Workforce Investment Organizations (WIO) to support training initiatives for the long-term care workforce. Focusing on one WIO, this formative evaluation examined quality improvement training programs delivered to 11,163 Home Health Aides employed by home care agencies serving clients of Managed Long-Term Care plans. Results are presented from a thematic analysis of qualitative interviews with organizational and program stakeholders examining contextual factors influencing program objectives, implementation, barriers and facilitators, and perceived outcomes. Findings suggested that WIO training programs were implemented during a period of shifting organizational strategies alongside value-based payment reforms and challenges to aide recruitment and retention. Stakeholders appraised WIO training programs positively and valued program flexibility and facilitation of communication and collaboration between agencies and plans. However, delivery and implementation challenges existed, and industry-wide structural fragmentation led stakeholders to question the WIO's larger impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Russell
- Department of Sociology, 1801Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, USA.,Center for Home Care Policy & Research, 44198Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mei-Chia Fong
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, 44198Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Oude Gao
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, 44198Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dan Lowenstein
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, 44198Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marian Haas
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, 44198Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Faith Wiggins
- 1199SEIU Home Care Industry Education Fund, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carlin Brickner
- Business Intelligence and Analytics, 44198Visiting Nurse Service of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily Franzosa
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center (GRECC), 20071James J Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA.,Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Reinhardt JP, Franzosa E, Mak W, Burack O. In Their Own Words: The Challenges Experienced by Certified Nursing Assistants and Administrators During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1539-1546. [PMID: 35343299 PMCID: PMC8958287 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221081124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the
challenges experienced by certified nursing assistants and administrators during
the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis. We conducted 6 administrator interviews and
10 remote focus groups with day and evening CNAs at 5 nursing homes
(N = 56) in downstate New York. Content analysis was
conducted, and emerging themes were identified across sites and roles. Results
showed numerous challenges for both CNAs and administrators including many that
were personal. These personal challenges included feeling helpless, anxious, or
fearful; experience of COVID illness; and balancing high concurrent demands of
work and family. There were also many operational challenges such as a lack of
COVID testing capacity, information, and consistent guidance and support,
staffing and equipment. Understanding these challenges can facilitate goals to
promote future safety, skill refinement, and enhanced resilience in the
workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joann P Reinhardt
- 5863The New Jewish Home Research Institute on Aging, New York, NY, USA
| | - Emily Franzosa
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, 20071James J. Peters VA Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wingyun Mak
- 5863The New Jewish Home Research Institute on Aging, New York, NY, USA
| | - Orah Burack
- 5863The New Jewish Home Research Institute on Aging, New York, NY, USA
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De Cock E, Leung G, Maclaine G, Shah H, Kuhn B, Nichols B. A US Time and Motion Pilot Study of Nebulized COPD Therapy in an Inpatient and a Long-Term Care Setting. Pulm Ther 2022; 8:225-232. [PMID: 35246821 PMCID: PMC8896414 DOI: 10.1007/s41030-022-00186-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction There is a lack of quantitative data on healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) time dedicated to nebulized chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) therapy in inpatient and long-term care (LTC) settings. Using time and motion methodology, we quantified HCP time and opportunity costs (time and materials) associated with nebulized COPD therapy in inpatient and LTC settings and estimated efficiencies of changing to once-daily therapy. Methods A case report form was built to reflect local nebulization workflow. Primary outcomes were mean active HCP time per predefined task and mean total active HCP time associated with short-acting beta agonist (SABA) and SABA/short-acting muscarinic antagonist (SAMA) combination nebulization processes. Results Twenty observations occurred within each setting. Inpatient observations included three SABA and 17 SABA/SAMA (from 18 different patients), and LTC observations included five SABA and 15 SABA/SAMA (from eight different patients). Mean total process time was 16.12 min in the inpatient setting (95% CI 14.48–17.76) and 21.0 min in the LTC setting (95% CI 18.8–23.2), with the actual nebulization comprising over 50% of process time for both. In LTC, CIs suggest a difference by cognitive impairment status: mean 24.1 min (95% CI 21.3–26.9) if cognitively impaired versus 19.0 min (95% CI 16.1–21.8) if not. In the inpatient setting, the estimated process time/admission was 7.8 h; a once-daily nebulized drug would require only 2.3 h. In LTC, the estimated process time was 32.1 h/month; a once-daily nebulized drug would require only 13.7 h/month. Estimated nebulization cost was $243/admission for current versus $72 for once-daily dosing in inpatient, and $1177/month versus $504 in LTC. Conclusions The nebulization process for COPD patients in both inpatient and LTC settings consumes considerable HCP time. A switch from SABA or SABA/SAMA to a drug with a once-daily nebulization frequency could generate substantial time savings depending on the setting and site characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erwin De Cock
- Syneos Health, Carrer Pau Claris, 196, 5º, 08037, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Grace Leung
- Theravance Biopharma US, Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Brooks Kuhn
- UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
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Hewitt J, Verbeek H. From Research to Impact in Long-Term Care: A Lived Experience Trajectory by Inaugural Winners of the Morley Award. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2022; 23:328-329. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Howard NL, Adams D, Cole J. An Examination of Washington State Workers’ Compensation Claims for Home-Based Health Care Workers, 2006 to 2016: Part 1. Description of Claims and Claimants. Home Health Care Management & Practice 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/10848223221075052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Home-based health care can be physically and emotionally demanding, resulting in injury or illness. Washington State’s workers’ compensation compensable claims between 2006 and 2016 were analyzed to describe the characteristics of injured home-based health care (HBHC) providers and the burden created by these injuries. Comparisons were made with clinical health care (CHC) providers, as well as between all compensable claims and work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) claims. Over 90% of claimants for both HBHC and CHC were female. The mean age of all compensable HBHC claimants (45.7 years) was significantly older than for CHC, with the majority (54.5%) between the ages of 40 and 59. However, HBHC claimants with WMSDs were younger, overall. Across health care type and claim type, the majority of injured care providers were overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25). The highest mean age occurred among claimants injured from falls, either on the same level or to a lower level (HBHC: 48.3-48.6 years, CHC: 46.1-48.1 years). This same group also had the highest BMIs. WMSDs accounted for 47.3% of HBHC compensable claims and 50.3% for CHC. Falls on the same level were the second most common injury event among HBHC claims. For both HBHC and CHC, back injuries were the most common body part for both claim types (all compensable claims: 28.8% HBHC and 23.9% CHC, WMSD claims: 60.8% HBHC and 47.5% CHC). Overexertion was the injury event most attributed to WMSDs (HBHC: 82.6%, CHC: 71.6), overexertion during lifting being the most prevalent overexertion type (HBHC: 27.8%, CHC: 19.6%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ninica L. Howard
- Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Tumwater, WA, USA
| | - Darrin Adams
- Washington State Department of Labor and Industries, Tumwater, WA, USA
| | - Jena Cole
- Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Olympia, WA, USA
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Manchha AV, Way KA, Tann K, Thai M. The Social Construction of Stigma in Aged-Care Work: Implications for Health Professionals' Work Intentions. Gerontologist 2022; 62:994-1005. [PMID: 35018434 PMCID: PMC9372892 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnac002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Although society has cultivated a deeper appreciation for essential health services, societal discourses reinforce a stigma of working in aged care. Drawing on dirty work and Stigma Theory, this study aims to investigate stigma in the context of recruiting health professionals. Research Design and Methods We employed a mixed-methods design to examine the nature and implications of the stigma of working in aged care. A path analysis was used to test whether health professionals’ (n = 159) negative perceptions of aged-care work would negatively predict their willingness to work in aged care. A linguistic analysis was conducted to understand how health professionals’ (n = 168) use of language positions themselves toward or away from engaging in aged-care work. Results Quantitative findings revealed that perceptions of physical taint directly predicted lower willingness to perform aged-care work. Perceptions of social taint, moral taint, and poor occupational conditions negatively predicted willingness to work in institutional aged care, indirectly via social devaluation. Findings from the linguistic analysis demonstrated that health professionals (re)produce stigma through aligning themselves with devaluing discourses about aged-care workers, work, and institutions. Discussion and Implications This study provides insight about the role that stigma plays in the aged-care recruitment crisis, with implications for aged-care institutions. Societal discourse may obstruct the employment of health professionals in aged care because it can (re)produce the stigma of working in aged care. Recommendations for ways to reduce the impact of this stigma include public messaging and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmita V Manchha
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kïrsten A Way
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ken Tann
- The University of Queensland Business School, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Thai
- School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Berridge C, Grigorovich A. Algorithmic harms and digital ageism in the use of surveillance technologies in nursing homes. Front Sociol 2022; 7:957246. [PMID: 36189442 PMCID: PMC9525107 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2022.957246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Ageism has not been centered in scholarship on AI or algorithmic harms despite the ways in which older adults are both digitally marginalized and positioned as targets for surveillance technology and risk mitigation. In this translation paper, we put gerontology into conversation with scholarship on information and data technologies within critical disability, race, and feminist studies and explore algorithmic harms of surveillance technologies on older adults and care workers within nursing homes in the United States and Canada. We start by identifying the limitations of emerging scholarship and public discourse on "digital ageism" that is occupied with the inclusion and representation of older adults in AI or machine learning at the expense of more pressing questions. Focusing on the investment in these technologies in the context of COVID-19 in nursing homes, we draw from critical scholarship on information and data technologies to deeply understand how ageism is implicated in the systemic harms experienced by residents and workers when surveillance technologies are positioned as solutions. We then suggest generative pathways and point to various possible research agendas that could illuminate emergent algorithmic harms and their animating force within nursing homes. In the tradition of critical gerontology, ours is a project of bringing insights from gerontology and age studies to bear on broader work on automation and algorithmic decision-making systems for marginalized groups, and to bring that work to bear on gerontology. This paper illustrates specific ways in which important insights from critical race, disability and feminist studies helps us draw out the power of ageism as a rhetorical and analytical tool. We demonstrate why such engagement is necessary to realize gerontology's capacity to contribute to timely discourse on algorithmic harms and to elevate the issue of ageism for serious engagement across fields concerned with social and economic justice. We begin with nursing homes because they are an understudied, yet socially significant and timely setting in which to understand algorithmic harms. We hope this will contribute to broader efforts to understand and redress harms across sectors and marginalized collectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Berridge
- School of Social Work, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
- *Correspondence: Clara Berridge
| | - Alisa Grigorovich
- Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, Canada
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Davis-Ajami ML, Lu ZK, Wu J. Exploring the home healthcare workforce in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias: Utilization and cost outcomes in US community dwelling older adults. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2022; 98:104536. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2021.104536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Scales K. Transforming Direct Care Jobs, Reimagining Long-Term Services and Supports. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2021; 23:207-213. [PMID: 34973168 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The diverse array of individuals who receive long-term services and supports share one common experience, which is the need for assistance with personal care and/or other daily activities. The direct care workers (including nursing assistants, home health aides, and personal care aides) who provide this assistance play a critical role in keeping individuals safe, supporting their health and well-being, and helping prevent adverse outcomes. Yet despite decades of research, advocacy, and incremental policy and practice reform, direct care workers remain inadequately compensated, supported, and respected. Long-standing direct care job quality concerns are linked to high turnover and job vacancy rates in this workforce, which in turn compromise the availability and quality of essential care for older adults and people with disabilities-which has never been more evident than during the COVID-19 pandemic. This special article makes the case for transforming direct care jobs and stabilizing this workforce as a centerpiece of efforts to reimagine long-term services and supports system in the United States, as a public health priority, and as a social justice imperative. Drawing on research evidence and examples from the field, the article demonstrates that a strong, stable direct care workforce requires: a competitive wage and adequate employment benefits for direct care workers; updated training standards and delivery systems that prepare these workers to meet increasingly complex care needs across settings, while also enhancing career mobility and workforce flexibility; investment in well-trained frontline supervisors and peer mentors to help direct care workers navigate their challenging roles; and an elevated position for direct care workers in relation to the interdisciplinary care team. The article concludes by highlighting federal and state policy opportunities to achieve direct care job transformation, as well as discussing research and practice implications.
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Song Y, Thorne TE, Norton PG, Poss J, DeGraves B, Estabrooks CA. Rushing Care by Care Aides Associated With Experiences of Responsive Behaviors From Residents in Nursing Homes. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2021:S1525-8610(21)00937-3. [PMID: 34818521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2021.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Residents with cognitive impairment favor "slow care," so rushed care may cause additional responsive behaviors (eg, verbal threats, hitting) among residents. We assessed the association of rushed care (physical and social) by care aides with their experiences of responsive behaviors from residents. DESIGN Cross-sectional analysis of survey data. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS A total of 3547 care aides (response rate: 69.97%) in 282 care units in a stratified random sample (health region, nursing home size, owner-operator model) of 87 urban nursing homes in Western Canada. METHODS Data collection occurred between September 2019 and February 2020. The dependent variables were care aide self-report of 4 types of verbal and physical responsive behavior (yes/no). The independent variables were care aide self-report of rushed physical care (count, range = 0-6) and rushed social care (yes/no). We conducted a 2-level random-intercept logistic regression with each dependent variable, controlling for care aide, care unit, and nursing home characteristics. RESULTS In their most recent shift, 2182 (61.5%) care aides reported having rushed at least 1 physical care task and 1782 (50.2%) reported having rushed talking with residents (social care task). When care aides rushed an additional physical care task, they had 8% higher odds of reporting having experienced yelling and screaming [odds ratio (OR) 1.08, 95% CI 1.01-1.15; P = .019]. When care aides rushed social care (talking with residents), they had 70% higher odds of reporting having experienced yelling and screaming (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.28-2.25; P < .001). We observed the same pattern for the other types of responsive behaviors. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Rushing of physical or social care tasks by care aides was associated with increased likelihood of responsive behaviors from residents. One approach to reducing both rushed care and resident responsive behaviors may be to improve the care environment for care aides and residents.
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Hasselgren C, Dellve L, Gillberg G. Conditions for distributed leadership practices among managers in elder- and disability care organizations: A structural equation modeling approach. International Journal of Nursing Studies Advances 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnsa.2021.100049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Osakwe ZT, Osborne JC, Samuel T, Bianco G, Céspedes A, Odlum M, Stefancic A. All alone: A qualitative study of home health aides' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York. Am J Infect Control 2021; 49:1362-1368. [PMID: 34391871 PMCID: PMC8358137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite their integral role, Home Health Aides (HHAs) are largely unrecognized as essential to implementing effective infection prevention and control practices in the home healthcare setting. We sought to understand the infection prevention and control needs and challenges associated with caring for patients during the pandemic from the perspective of HHAs. METHODS From June to August 2020, data were collected from HHAs in the New York metropolitan area using semi-structured qualitative interviews by telephone; 12 HHAs were interviewed in Spanish. Audio-recorded interviews were transcribed, translated and analyzed using conventional content analysis. RESULTS In total, 25 HHAs employed by 4 unique home care agencies participated. HHAs had a mean age of 49.8 (± 9.1), 24 (97%) female, 11 (44%) Black, 12 (48%) Hispanic. Three major themes related to the experience of HHA's working during the COVID-19 pandemic emerged: (1) all alone, (2) limited access to information and resources, and (3) dilemmas related to enhanced COVID-19 precautions. Hispanic HHAs with limited English proficiency faced additional difficulties related to communication. CONCLUSIONS We found that HHA communication with nursing staff, plays a key role in infection control efforts in home care. Efforts to manage COVID-19 in home care should include improving communication between HHAs and nursing staff.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennel C Osborne
- Harriet Rothkopf Heilbrunn School of Nursing, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY
| | - Tonya Samuel
- College of Nursing and Public Health, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY
| | - Gabriella Bianco
- College of Nursing and Public Health, Adelphi University, Garden City, NY
| | | | - Michelle Odlum
- Irving Medical Center, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Ana Stefancic
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University, New York, NY
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Jumabhoy S, Jung HY, Yu J. Characterizing the direct care health workforce in the United States, 2010-2019. J Am Geriatr Soc 2021; 70:512-521. [PMID: 34687042 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.17519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To describe the growth and characteristics of the direct care health workforce, encompassing home health aides, personal care aides, nursing assistants, and orderlies and psychiatric aides from 2010 to 2019 in the United States. METHODS Using nationally representative data from the 2010 to 2019 American Community Survey, we described the growth in the direct care health workforce overall and by type of direct care health worker. In addition, we examined the distribution of direct care workers by geographic region of the country, age categories, citizenship, world area of birth, income, health insurance status, and other characteristics. RESULTS From 2010 to 2019, the number of direct care health workers in the United States per 10,000 individuals decreased slightly from 135.81 in 2010 to 133.78 in 2019. Personal care aides made up 42.1% of the direct care health workforce in 2019, followed by nursing assistants (39.5%) and home health aides (16.3%). In 2019, the number of direct care health workers who were not U.S. citizens accounted for roughly 10% of all workers in each year. The relative percentage of direct care health workers that were not a citizen of the United States was highest among home health aides (16.3%). Among workers born outside of the United States, the majority were from Latin America, followed by Asia. CONCLUSION From 2010 to 2019, there was little growth in the direct care health workforce despite growing demand for direct care health workers. In the midst of the current and projected shortage of direct care health workers-particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, longer-term solutions to improve retention of direct care health workers and increase the supply of direct care health workers may be needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Jumabhoy
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Hye-Young Jung
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jiani Yu
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York, USA
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Osei-Poku G, Szczerepa O, Potter A, Malone M, Fain B, Prentice J. Safety Trade-Offs in Home Care During COVID-19: A Mixed Methods Study Capturing the Perspective of Frontline Workers. PatientSaf 2021. [DOI: 10.33940/infection/2021.9.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Home care workers help older individuals and those with disabilities with a variety of functional tasks. Despite their core role providing essential care to vulnerable populations, home care workers are often an invisible sector of the healthcare workforce. The transmission of COVID-19 and the nature of home care work raise several questions about the overall safety of these workers during the pandemic.
Objective: To examine the experiences of home care workers during COVID-19, particularly their access to information about infection status, to testing, and to personal protective equipment (PPE); their understanding of guidelines; and trade-offs associated with protecting workers’ safety.
Methods: A mixed methods study including qualitative analysis of guided discussion questions and quantitative analysis of multiple-choice survey questions was conducted. Eleven virtual focus groups in October and November 2020 involved 83 home care workers who care for clients/consumers in Massachusetts. Thirty-nine participants worked as personal care attendants (PCAs) employed directly by a consumer and 44 participants worked for an agency. Ninety percent self-identified as female and 54% had worked in home care for more than five years. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis, with identification of major and minor themes. Likert scale survey question data on perceptions of COVID-19 exposure, access to resources to prevent transmission, and perceptions of safety at work were dichotomized into agree or disagree.
Results: PCAs and agency-employed home care workers were regularly faced with trade-offs between meeting client/consumer needs and protecting themselves from COVID-19 exposure. Twenty-five percent of participants reported serving a client/consumer who had COVID-19, 75% reported worrying about getting COVID-19 at work, and 29% reported thinking about stopping their work in home care. Despite a low pay structure, participants reported opting to risk exposure rather than to leave their clients/consumers without essential care. However, workers often lacked the resources (e.g., PPE, testing) to feel truly protected. This scarcity of resources combined with insufficient guidance and policies specific to home care settings led many workers to informally collaborate with clients/consumers to assess exposure risks and agree upon safety protocols. Focus group participants expressed uncertainty as to whether workers were truly empowered to ask for changes if conditions seemed unsafe. The burden of determining safety protocols was felt more strongly by PCAs who operate more independently than agency-employed workers who have supervisors to consult.
Conclusions: Home care workers expressed deep commitment to continuing to care for their clients/consumers during COVID-19, but often had to operate with insufficient resources and under conditions that made their work environments feel unsafe. Their ability to identify exposure risks and make decisions on how to protect themselves often hinged on a transparent and trusting relationship with their clients/consumers. These relationships were particularly important for PCAs who did not have access to safety guidance from a home care agency.
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Bhattacharyya KK, Craft Morgan J, Burgess EO. Person-Centered Care in Nursing Homes: Potential of Complementary and Alternative Approaches and Their Challenges. J Appl Gerontol 2021; 41:817-825. [PMID: 34114482 DOI: 10.1177/07334648211023661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A person-centered approach to care shifts the mind-set of care partners from a traditional medical model to a social model in managing chronic conditions. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this study examines the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of person-centered care (PCC) and how the integration of complementary and alternative approaches (CAA) has the potential to improve residents' quality of life in nursing homes (NHs). Findings indicate that NHs offer a wide range of engagement activities, but these activities are not purposefully integrated into a person-centered plan of care. Factors such as turnover, "working short," supervisor support, and rising resident care needs make it challenging to implement PCC in NHs. This knowledge of the landscape of activities will help us identify and improve strategies for supporting residents at a deeper, more meaningful level. CAA has the potential to be therapeutic for residents if integrated into collaborative approaches to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Meeks
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Howard B Degenholtz
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Wu SC, Peng MC, Hsueh JY, Chiang TL, Tu YK, Tung YC, Chen YM. Impact of a New Home Care Payment Mechanism on Growth of the Home Care Workforce in Taiwan. Gerontologist 2021; 61:505-516. [PMID: 33491078 DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnab010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Taiwan implemented its first National 10-Year Long-Term Care Plan in 2008 and its second in 2017. Over the first 10 years, the number of home care workers grew too slowly to meet demand. To increase the home care workforce, the government introduced 2 new payment mechanisms in 2018. This study assesses these mechanisms' impact on growth in numbers of home care workers and use of home care services in Taiwan. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Data were collected from the Ministry of Health and Welfare (2014-2019) and the Division of Long-Term Care (2017-2019). Generalized estimating equations compared rates of growth in the number of home care, institutional care, and foreign care workers and the number of care recipients receiving care from each group before and after 2018. RESULTS Before 2018, rates of growth in all three groups of care workers increased slowly. After 2018, the rate of growth for home care workers increased to 31.8% from 9%, while growth in the other two groups remained stable. While there was greater workforce growth among home care than institutional care workers post-implementation of the payment mechanisms (p < .05), the number of home care recipients (p < .05) and monthly home care visits (p < .05) also increased. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS The new payment mechanisms improved home care workers' autonomy and salaries and appear to have contributed to immediate increased recruitment and retention. Whether this increase continues over the long run will need to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Cyuan Wu
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | | - Tung-Liang Chiang
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Kang Tu
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chi Tung
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Mei Chen
- Institute of Health Policy and Management, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Suppan M, Abbas M, Catho G, Stuby L, Regard S, Achab S, Harbarth S, Suppan L. Impact of a Serious Game (Escape COVID-19) on the Intention to Change COVID-19 Control Practices Among Employees of Long-term Care Facilities: Web-Based Randomized Controlled Trial. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e27443. [PMID: 33685854 PMCID: PMC7996198 DOI: 10.2196/27443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs) are at high risk of complications and death following SARS-CoV-2 infection. In these facilities, viral transmission can be facilitated by shortages of human and material resources, which can lead to suboptimal application of infection prevention and control (IPC) procedures. To improve the dissemination of COVID-19 IPC guidelines, we developed a serious game called "Escape COVID-19" using Nicholson's RECIPE for meaningful gamification, as engaging serious games have the potential to induce behavioral change. OBJECTIVE As the probability of executing an action is strongly linked to the intention of performing it, the objective of this study was to determine whether LTCF employees were willing to change their IPC practices after playing "Escape COVID-19." METHODS This was a web-based, triple-blind, randomized controlled trial, which took place between November 5 and December 4, 2020. The health authorities of Geneva, Switzerland, asked the managers of all LTCFs under their jurisdiction to forward information regarding the study to all their employees, regardless of professional status. Participants were unaware that they would be randomly allocated to one of two different study paths upon registration. In the control group, participants filled in a first questionnaire designed to gather demographic data and assess baseline knowledge before accessing regular online IPC guidelines. They then answered a second questionnaire, which assessed their willingness to change their IPC practices and identified the reasons underlying their decision. They were then granted access to the serious game. Conversely, the serious game group played "Escape COVID-19" after answering the first questionnaire but before answering the second one. This group accessed the control material after answering the second set of questions. There was no time limit. The primary outcome was the proportion of LTCF employees willing to change their IPC practices. Secondary outcomes included the factors underlying participants' decisions, the domains these changes would affect, changes in the use of protective equipment items, and attrition at each stage of the study. RESULTS A total of 295 answer sets were analyzed. Willingness to change behavior was higher in the serious game group (82% [119/145] versus 56% [84/150]; P<.001), with an odds ratio of 3.86 (95% CI 2.18-6.81; P<.001) after adjusting for professional category and baseline knowledge, using a mixed effects logistic regression model with LTCF as a random effect. For more than two-thirds (142/203) of the participants, the feeling of playing an important role against the epidemic was the most important factor explaining their willingness to change behavior. Most of the participants unwilling to change their behavior answered that they were already applying all the guidelines. CONCLUSIONS The serious game "Escape COVID-19" was more successful than standard IPC material in convincing LTCF employees to adopt COVID-19-safe IPC behavior. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.2196/25595.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Suppan
- Division of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Infection Control Programme and WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gaud Catho
- Infection Control Programme and WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Simon Regard
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of the Surgeon General, Geneva Directorate of Health, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophia Achab
- Specialized Facility in Behavioral Addictions ReConnecte, University of Geneva Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- WHO Collaborating Center in Training and Research in Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Harbarth
- Infection Control Programme and WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Laurent Suppan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
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Suppan L, Abbas M, Catho G, Stuby L, Regard S, Harbarth S, Achab S, Suppan M. Impact of a Serious Game on the Intention to Change Infection Prevention and Control Practices in Nursing Homes During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Protocol for a Web-Based Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2020; 9:e25595. [PMID: 33296329 PMCID: PMC7744143 DOI: 10.2196/25595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nursing home residents are at high risk of complications and death due to COVID-19. Lack of resources, both human and material, amplifies the likelihood of contamination in these facilities where a single employee can contaminate dozens of residents and colleagues. Improving the dissemination of and adhesion to infection prevention and control (IPC) guidelines is therefore essential. Serious games have been shown to be effective in developing knowledge and in increasing engagement, and could motivate nursing home employees to change their IPC practices. OBJECTIVE Our aim is to assess the impact of "Escape COVID-19," a serious game designed to enhance knowledge and application of IPC procedures, on the intention of nursing home employees to change their IPC practices. METHODS We will carry out a web-based randomized controlled trial following the CONSORT-EHEALTH (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials of Electronic and Mobile Health Applications and Online Telehealth) guidelines and incorporating relevant elements of CHERRIES (Checklist for Reporting Results of Internet E-Surveys). Participants will be randomized to either the control or the serious game (intervention) group. First, both groups will be asked to answer a questionnaire designed to gather demographic data and assess baseline knowledge. The control group will then receive a quick reminder of the current national guidelines and links to IPC guidelines for health care professionals, while the other group will play the game. Both groups will then have to answer a second questionnaire designed to assess their willingness to change their IPC practices after having followed their respective material. After completing this questionnaire, they will be granted access to the material presented to the group they were not assigned to and receive a course completion certificate. The primary outcome will be the proportion of participants willing to change their IPC practices according to group. Secondary outcomes will include the analysis of specific questions detailing the exact changes considered by the participants. Factors associated with participant willingness or reluctance to change behavior will also be assessed. Attrition will also be assessed at each stage of the study. RESULTS The study protocol has been presented to our regional ethics committee (Req-2020-01262), which issued a declaration of no objection as such projects do not fall within the scope of the Swiss federal law on human research. Data collection began on November 5, 2020, and should be completed by December 4, 2020. CONCLUSIONS This study should determine whether "Escape COVID-19," a serious game designed to improve compliance with COVID-19 safe practices, modifies the intention to follow IPC guidelines among nursing home employees. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/25595.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Suppan
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Infection Control Programme, WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Gaud Catho
- Infection Control Programme, WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Simon Regard
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland.,Division of General Surgeon, Geneva Directorate of Health, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Harbarth
- Infection Control Programme, WHO Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophia Achab
- Specialized Facility in Behavioral Addictions ReConnecte, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.,WHO Collaborating Center in Training and Research in Mental Health, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mélanie Suppan
- Division of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Pharmacology, Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
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