Motivation to perform activities of daily living in the institutionalized older adult: can a leopard change its spots?

Function-Focused Care for Cognitive Impairment Training Among Formal Caregivers in Long-Term Care Facilities in Taiwan: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

PURPOSE

To examine behavior changes among formal caregivers in Taiwanese long-term care facilities (LTCFs) after receiving training in function-focused care for cognitive impairment (FFC-CI).

METHOD

The current study was a clustered randomized controlled trial. Formal caregivers (i.e., RNs and nursing assistants) (N = 98) from four LTCFs were randomly assigned to experimental or control groups. Training was based on four components of FFC-CI. Data were collected four times within 9 months using five observational outcome measurements: Self-Efficacy for Restorative Care (SERCS), Outcome Expectations for Restorative Care Scale (OERCS), Restorative Care Knowledge Scale (RCKS), Restorative Care Behavior Checklist (RCBC), and Job Attitude Scale (JAS).

RESULTS

Statistically significant changes were noted in each activity of restorative care behavior among the four observational measurements. Results also indicated that job satisfaction was a statistically significant main effect for the experimental group; however, SERCS, OERCS, and RCKS scores were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

To eliminate gaps between translating research outcomes to clinical practice, this study applied a theory-based caring model for caregivers to improve knowledge and skills in caring for older adults with dementia. Caregivers who received training in FFC-CI not only had higher job satisfaction but could also provide specific FFC activities for residents during their daily care. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50(7), 42-50.].

Custom-Made Daily Routine Increases the Number of Steps Taken by Frail Older Adults

This study examined whether the number of steps taken by frail older adults increased after two types of interventions (custom-made daily routine [CDR] vs. exercise) were conducted over 12 weeks. The participants were 36 frail older adults aged 84.5 ± 6.0 years who attended a day-care center. They were assigned to one of three groups: CDR (n = 13), home-based exercise (HE, n = 10), or control (CON, n = 13). A wrist-worn accelerometer was used to measure their step count in 24 hr for 6 days. The CDR group demonstrated a daily step count change of approximately 25%, which was significantly higher than that of the CON group (effect size [r] = .51, p = .040). There were no significant changes in the HE group. Thus, a CDR might be useful for increasing the number of steps in frail older adults.

Reliability and Validity of the Checklist for Function-Focused Care in Service Plans

The purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Checklist for Function-Focused Care in Service Plans. Function-focused care is a care approach that optimizes function and physical activity during all care interactions. This study used baseline data from the first cohort of the study titled Dissemination and Implementation of Function-Focused Care for Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT). A total of 242 participants were recruited from 26 assisted living facilities. The majority of participants were White, female, and unmarried. There was support for internal consistency with an alpha coefficient of .96, interrater reliability with a correlation of .80, construct validity based on Rasch analysis and INFIT statistics ranging from 0.69 to 1.29, and a significant association with function-focused care activities. Although there is some support for reliability and validity of the measure, modifications are recommended to add more challenging items.

Testing of the Function Focused Environment Assessment and the Function Focused Policy Assessment in Assisted Living

This study tested two new instruments, the Function Focused Environment Assessment (FF-EA) and the Function Focused Policy Assessment (FF-PA). The measures were developed for clinical evaluation of AL settings to help optimize function and physical activity among residents. A total of 106 AL settings and 242 residents were included. There was evidence of item reliability (0.92) and interrater reliability (kappa=0.40, p=.015; percent agreement 85%) of FF-EA and item reliability (0.89) and interrater reliability (kappa=0.48, p=.001, percent agreement 82%) of the FF-PA, and support for validity of both measures based on INFIT and OUTFIT statistics and hypothesis testing.

Physical Exercise Helped to Maintain and Restore Functioning in Chinese Older Adults With Mild Cognitive Impairment: A 5-Year Prospective Study of the Hong Kong Memory and Ageing Prospective Study (HK-MAPS)

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the potential of physical exercise habit as a lifestyle modification against cognitive and functional decline at the community level.

METHODS

A total of 454 community-dwelling Chinese older adults without dementia participated in the Hong Kong Memory and Ageing Prospective Study at baseline and follow-up at 5 years. Their cognitive and functional performances were assessed by the Cantonese version of the Mini-Mental State Examination (CMMSE) and the Chinese version of Disability Assessment in Dementia (DAD). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were performed to examine whether physical exercise was a significant predictor of the follow-up CMMSE and DAD scores after controlling for the covariates. Subgroup analyses were performed with a group of 127 participants with mild cognitive impairment at baseline.

RESULTS

Physical exercise habit was a significant predictor for both the follow-up CMMSE scores and DAD scores. Participants with exercise habits of 5 years or more showed better cognitive and functional performances at follow-up. Participants who picked up exercise habits only after the baseline assessment also demonstrated better functioning at follow-up. The same patterns were observed in the subgroup analyses with the mild cognitive impairment group.

CONCLUSION

Results suggested that prolonged exercise habit is required for positive effects on cognition to emerge, but benefits on functioning can be observed when individuals take up an exercise habit later in life or even after the beginning of cognitive decline. These findings are encouraging in promoting an exercise habit among older adults living in the community.

Dissemination and Implementation of Function Focused Care for Assisted Living

Assisted living (AL) settings are residential settings that provide housing and supportive services for older and disabled adults. Although individuals in AL are less functionally impaired than those in nursing home settings, they engage in limited amounts of physical activity and experience more rapid functional decline than their peers in nursing homes. Function Focused Care for Assisted Living (FFC-AL) was developed to prevent decline, improve function, and increase physical activity among residents living in these settings. The purpose of this study was to disseminate and implement the previously established, effective FFC-AL approach to 100 AL settings. Evidence of our ability to successfully disseminate and implement FFC-AL across these settings was established using the Reach, Efficacy/Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance model. Settings were eligible to participate if they had more than eight beds and identified a nurse (i.e., registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, or direct care worker) champion to facilitate the implementation process. Setting recruitment was done via mailed invitations to 300 eligible ALs and e-mails to relevant AL organizations. Evidence of reach was based on our ability to recruit 99 ALs with adoption of the intervention in 78 (78%). There was a significant improvement in policies supporting function-focused care and in establishing environments that supported function-focused care, and there was evidence of enduring changes in settings indicative of maintenance. We were able to implement all aspects of the intervention although challenges were identified. Future work should focus on using more face-to-face interactions with champions along with identified stakeholders, evaluating characteristics of champions to establish those who are most successful, and recruiting residents to obtain resident-specific outcomes.

Evaluation of a pet-assisted living intervention for improving functional status in assisted living residents with mild to moderate cognitive impairment: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

In older adults with cognitive impairment (CI), decreased functional status and increased behavioral symptoms require relocation from assisted living (AL) to nursing homes. Studies support positive effects of pets on health/function.

PURPOSE

Evaluate the effectiveness of the Pet AL (PAL) intervention to support physical, behavioral, and emotional function in AL residents with CI.

METHODS

Cognitively impaired AL residents randomized to 60-90 minute sessions [PAL (n = 22) or reminiscing (n = 18)] twice/week for 12 weeks. PAL interventionist encourages residents to perform skills with the visiting dog; reminiscing interventionist encourages residents to reminisce. Monthly assessment of physical (energy expenditure, activities of daily living), emotional (depression, apathy), and behavioral (agitation) function.

RESULTS

In linear mixed models, physical activity depressive symptoms improved more with PAL.

CONCLUSION

Evidence supports that the PAL program helps preserve/enhance function of AL residents with CI. Additional study is required to evaluate the duration and predictors of effectiveness of the PAL intervention.

General motor function assessment scale--reliability of a Norwegian version

PURPOSE

The General Motor Function assessment scale (GMF) measures activity-related dependence, pain and insecurity among older people in frail health. The aim of the present study was to translate the GMF into a Norwegian version (N-GMF) and establish its reliability and clinical feasibility.

METHODS

The procedure used in translating the GMF was a forward and backward process, testing a convenience sample of 30 frail elderly people with it. The intra-rater reliability tests were performed by three physiotherapists, and the inter-reliability test was done by the same three plus nine independent colleagues. The statistical analyses were performed with a pairwise analysis for intra- and inter-rater reliability, using Cronbach's α, Percentage Agreement (PA), Svensson's rank transformable method and Cohen's κ.

RESULTS

The Cronbach's α coefficients for the different subscales of N-GMF were 0.68 for Dependency, 0.73 for Pain and 0.75 for Insecurity. Intra-rater reliability: The variation in the PA for the total score was 40-70% in Dependence, 30-40% in Pain and 30-60% in Insecurity. The Relative Rank Variant (RV) indicated a modest individual bias and an augmented rank-order agreement coefficient ra of 0.96, 0.96 and 0.99, respectively. The variation in the κ statistics was 0.27-0.62 for Dependence, 0.17-0.35 for Pain and 0.13-0.47 for Insecurity. Inter-rater reliability: The PA between different testers in Dependence, Pain and Insecurity was 74%, 89% and 74%, respectively. The augmented rank-order agreement coefficients were: for Dependence r(a) = 0.97; for Pain, r(a) = 0.99; and for Insecurity, r(a) = 0.99.

CONCLUSION

The N-GMF is a fairly reliable instrument for use with frail elderly people, with intra-rater and inter-rater reliability moderate in Dependence and slight to fair in Pain and Insecurity. The clinical usefulness was stressed in regard to its main focus, the frail elderly, and for communication within a multidisciplinary team. Implications for Rehabilitation The Norwegian-General Motor Function Assessment Scale (N-GMF) is a reliable instrument. The N-GMF is an instrument for screening and assessment of activity-related dependence, pain and insecurity in frail older people. The N-GMF may be used as a tool of communication in a multidisciplinary team.

Baseline disability in activities of daily living predicts dementia risk even after controlling for baseline global cognitive ability and depressive symptoms

OBJECTIVES

Late-life disability in activities of daily living (ADL) is theorized to be driven by underlying cognitive and/or physical impairment, interacting with psychological and environmental factors. Although we expect that cognitive deficits would explain associations between ADL disability and dementia risk, the current study examined ADL as a predictor of future dementia after controlling for global cognitive status.

METHODS

The population-based Cache County Memory Study (N = 3547) assessed individuals in four triennial waves (average age 74.9 years, years of education 13.36 years; 57.9% were women). Cox proportional hazards regression models assessed whether baseline ADL disability (presence of 2+ Instrumental ADL and/or 1+ Personal ADL) predicted incident dementia after controlling for APOE status, gender, age, baseline cognitive ability (Modified Mini-mental State Exam, 3MS-R; adjusted for education level), and baseline depressive symptoms (Diagnostic Interview Schedule).

RESULTS

Over the course of study, 571 cases of incident dementia were identified through in-depth cognitive assessment, ending in expert consensus diagnosis. Results from Cox models suggest that ADL disability is a statistically significant predictor of incident dementia (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.83, p < 0.001), even after controlling for covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest that ADL disability offers unique contributions in risk for incident dementia, even after controlling for global cognitive status. We discuss how physical impairment and executive function may play important roles in this relationship, and how ADL is useful, not just a diagnostic tool at, or after dementia onset, but also as a risk factor for future dementia, even in individuals not impaired on global cognitive tests.

Using Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument software to synthesise studies on older people's views and experiences of falls prevention

Aim  To report on the experiences of using software (Qualitative Assessment and Review Instrument (QARI)) specifically designed to synthesise qualitative research studies. Background  The synthesis of qualitative research using a systematic review process is somewhat contentious and at present a variety of approaches exists. One approach is the QARI tool from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) which provides a structured process to qualitative synthesis for appraising, extracting and synthesizing qualitative research that is considered more aggregative than interpretative. The process shares similarities with the methods of quantitative systematic review although the analysis stage is grounded in qualitative methodology. QARI provides a means for accumulating and synthesizing qualitative-based knowledge on the view and experiences of healthcare users and staff that can be used alongside systematic reviews of effectiveness to supply information on barriers and facilitators to adopting an intervention. The synthesis of qualitative research on older people's experiences of falls is used as the focus in this paper. Conclusions  In common with other qualitative synthesis methodologies, there remain important areas for debate. These relate to the process and outcomes of: quality assessment, extracting findings from primary studies, the creation of categories (themes, metaphors), the expression of the synthesis and the credibility of an iterative review process.

Exploring the Factors That Influence Functional Performance Among Nursing Home Residents

Objective: To promote healthy aging in older nursing home (NH) residents, it is important to identify factors that impact functional performance. Using the Disablement Process Model, it was hypothesized that variables from all levels of the model would significantly impact the ability of a NH resident to get up from a chair. Method: A stepwise multiple logistic regression model was used to test the impact of sociodemographic, physiologic, physical, psychosocial, and environmental factors on chair rise. Results: Analysis indicated that three factors, strength, gait, and self-efficacy, were significantly associated with chair-rise ability and together explained approximately 64% of the variance and successfully classified 88.4% of the chair-rise cases. Discussion: These findings indicate that identifying physical and psychosocial variables early in the disablement process will help health care providers tailor medical and restorative care interventions that may help older adults maintain the ability to chair rise.

The Getting-Out-of-Bed (GoB) scale: a measure of motivation and life outlook in older adults with cancer

OBJECTIVE

To develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a measure of motivation and life outlook (Getting-Out-of-Bed [GoB]).

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of baseline and 6-month data from a longitudinal follow-up study of older breast cancer survivors.

PARTICIPANTS

Women (N = 660) diagnosed with primary breast cancer stage I-IIIA disease, age >or=65 years, and permission to contact from an attending physician in four geographic regions in the United States (city-based Los Angeles, California; statewide in Minnesota, North Carolina, and Rhode Island).

MEASUREMENT

Data were collected over 6-months of follow-up from consenting patients' medical records and telephone interviews with patients. Data collected included the 4-item GoB, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), breast cancer, sociodemographic, and health-related characteristics.

RESULTS

Factor analysis produced, as hypothesized, one principal component with eigen values of 2.74(baseline) and 2.91(6-months) which explained 68.6%(baseline) and 72.7%(6-months) of total variance. In further psychometric analyses, GoB exhibited good construct validity (divergent: low nonstatistically significant correlations with unrelated constructs; convergent: moderate statistically significant correlations with related constructs; discriminant: distinguished high HRQoL groups with a high level of significance), excellent internal reliability (Cronbach's alpha 0.84(baseline), 0.87(6-months)), and produced stable measurements over 6-months. Women with GoB scores >or=50 at baseline were more likely at 6-months to have good HRQoL, good self-perceived health, and report regular exercise, indicating good predictive ability.

CONCLUSION

GoB demonstrated overall good psychometric properties in this sample of older breast cancer survivors, suggestive of a promising tool for assessing motivation and life outlook in older adults. Nevertheless, because it was developed and initially evaluated in a select sample, using measures with similar but not exact content overlap further evaluation is needed before it can be recommended for widespread use.

Validation of the General Motor Function Assessment Scale - an instrument for the elderly

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to test the General Motor Function Assessment Scale (GMF) for content and criterion validity in geriatric home-rehabilitation. Furthermore, the GMF was analysed with respect to sensitivity, distribution, and for floor and ceiling effects.

METHOD

Content validity was explored by questionnaires circulated to ten experts in the field of geriatrics. Three assessment instruments were used to test 66 patients in home rehabilitation. In order to evaluate criterion validity GMF results were compared to results from the ADL-taxonomy test, and the Timed 'Up and Go' (TUG) test. GMF scores were analysed regarding, sensitivity, distribution and to check for floor or ceiling effects. Comparisons between pre-intervention assessments and post-intervention assessments were also made. Non-parametric statistics were used.

RESULTS

GMF covered and measured areas of relevance according to content validity. No floor effects in any of the subscales of GMF were seen. Comparison of pre-intervention and post-intervention assessments showed significant ceiling effects for all three subscales. As for criterion validity all subscales of GMF in terms of dependence, pain and insecurity correlated significantly with the activity parameter mobility of the ADL-taxonomy and TUG. GMF was sensitive enough to demonstrate changes between pre-intervention and post-intervention status.

CONCLUSIONS

GMF is a relevant instrument of assessment suitable for physiotherapists rehabilitating elderly in the home environment. For elderly with minor functional limitations the GMF shows ceiling effects.

The Reliability and Validity of the Physical Activity Survey in Long-Term Care

The purpose of this study was to develop and test a measure of physical activity for residents in long-term-care facilities, the Physical Activity Survey in Long-Term Care (PAS-LTC). Sixty-six activities are included in the PAS-LTC: routine physical activity, personal-care activities, structured exercise, recreational activities, caretaking activities, and repetitive activities. The study included 13 residents in a long-term-care facility, most of whom were women (62%), with an average age of 84 years (± 6.0) and an average Mini Mental State Examination score of 6 (± 6.9). There was evidence of interrater reliability of the PAS-LTC with intraclass correlations of .83-.94. There was some evidence of validity of the measure with statistically significant correlations between PAS-LTC recorded during the evening and night shifts and the number of counts of activity per the ActiGraph (r= .60 andr= .57, respectively,p< .05) and the calories estimated (r= .58 andr= .60, respectively,p< .05). The PAS-LTC completed during the day shift and total activity based on the PAS-LTC showed nonsignificant correlations of .40 or greater with the ActiGraph activity counts and calories.

Nursing Staff Beliefs and Expectations About Continence Care in Nursing Homes

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this qualitative study was to consider the current beliefs of nursing assistants and directors of nursing about management of urinary incontinence (UI) among the residents in nursing homes.

DESIGN

This was a qualitative study using purposive sampling and a focus group methodology.

SETTING AND SUBJECTS

Three focus groups including 38 participants were held in 2 different regions. Two of the focus groups comprised nursing assistants and 1 comprised directors of nursing.

METHOD

The focus groups were facilitated by 2 different advanced practice nurses (BR and LJK), and 2 similar interview guides were used: 1 for the nursing assistants and 1 for the nurses. The interviews were tape recorded and transcribed verbatim; data were analyzed via content analysis.

RESULTS

Ten themes were identified from the data; 3 focused on resident factors that influence UI, 4 related to staff and family contributors to UI, and 3 focused on recommendations to improve UI management in the nursing home setting.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study can be used to guide interventions to decrease or eliminate barriers to continence care and thereby facilitate the implementation of clinical practice guidelines and evidence-based interventions to improve urinary continence among nursing home residents.

Situations influencing habits in diet and exercise among nurses working night shift

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the investigation was to describe situations with a significant influence on healthy diet and exercise habits among nurses working night shift.

METHODS

A qualitative descriptive design with a Critical Incident Technique approach was used. Situations were collected by means of interviews with 27 registered/enrolled community nurses.

RESULTS

A total of 143 situations were identified comprising two main areas: coping ability at work and coping ability during leisure hours. Coping ability at work included 81 critical incidents grouped into two categories: the nurses' diet and exercise habits were influenced by social interaction with colleagues at work and by the disruption to their circadian rhythm. Coping ability during leisure hours included 62 critical incidents grouped into two categories: the diet and exercise habits were influenced when the nurses recovered from the disruption to their circadian rhythm and when they took advantage of the freedom of action offered by night work.

CONCLUSIONS

By identifying the factors that influence diet and exercise habits among nurses working night shift, strategies can be developed in order to strengthen the factors with a positive influence.

Testing a model of post-stroke exercise behavior

Stroke is the leading cause of disability in older Americans, and survivors tend to be sedentary, thereby risking loss of functional gains achieved during rehabilitation and increasing cardiovascular risk. Studies of motivation to exercise in older adults suggest that self-efficacy and outcome expectations are key determinants of initiation and adherence to exercise programs. This study tested a theoretical model of physical activity in stroke survivors. A survey of exercise beliefs and patterns was sent to National Stroke Association stroke support groups. Responses from 312 stroke survivors (mean age 63 years, 57% female, 70% White) indicated that only 31% exercised four times weekly. Self-efficacy and outcome expectations for exercise, before exercise history, and physician recommendation all directly and indirectly influenced self-reported exercise behavior and accounted for 33% of the total variance in exercise behavior. Model testing supported the theory and the model fit the data. Interventions to strengthen self-efficacy and outcome expectations for exercise, along with reminders for clinicians to encourage regular exercise programs, may increase the likelihood of initiating and maintaining an exercise program, potentially improving physical function and cardiovascular fitness in this population.

Pilot Testing of the Restorative Care Intervention: Impact on Residents

The purpose of this pilot study was to test the feasibility and effectiveness of a two-tiered motivational intervention, the Res-Care Intervention, on nursing home residents. Twenty-one residents consented to participate in the study. The residents were 88.3 (+/- 4.9) years of age, had lived in the facility 1.6 (+/- 3.4) years, were women (93%), White (93%), and unmarried (85%). Although there were some positiv trends, there was not a statistically significant difference in any of the resident outcomes following implementation of the Res-Care Intervention. The findings have been used to revise the Res-Care Intervention to include additional education needs for the nursing assistants, revisions in the motivational intervention for the nursing assistants and nurses, clarification of documentation and motivational techniques to improve documentation, and implementation of a more comprehensive treatment fidelity plan.

Making a Difference: Nursing Assistants' Perspectives of Restorative Care Nursing

This article explores the experiences of nursing assistants who participated in the Res-Care Pilot Intervention. A qualitative study used a focus group methodology. An interview guide was used and data from focus groups were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. A purposive sample of 13 nursing assistants participated in the focus groups. A total of 35 different codes were identified, and these were reduced to the following four themes: resident barriers to restorative care, facility or system barriers to restorative care, nursing assistant strategies, and system facilitators of restorative care. The study supports and adds to previous work that suggests that in order to successfully implement changes in care in nursing home settings the following issues should be addressed: real or perceived workload issues, poor communication with nursing, insufficient knowledge or education, lack of appropriate supplies, and insufficient administrative support. The findings may be used to revise the Res-Care Pilot Intervention and direct future implementation of programs in nursing home settings.

GENDER COMPARISONS OF FUNCTION-RELATED DEPENDENCE PAIN AND INSECURITY IN GERIATRIC REHABILITATION

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate possible gender differences regarding the effect of intervention in geriatric rehabilitation, expressed in terms of change in function-related dependence, pain and insecurity.

DESIGN

Comparative study.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 110 women and 44 men undergoing geriatric rehabilitation.

METHODS

Performance-based assessments with use of the General Motor Function assessment scale. Non-parametric statistics were mainly used.

RESULTS

The women showed higher degrees of function-related dependence, pain and insecurity on admission than the men. Both women and men displayed significant improvement in all 3 variables during the rehabilitation period. However, the positive changes regarding pain and insecurity were according to the analyses of systematic group changes, at a low degree among the men, probably because of the low levels on admission. Gender comparisons of proportions with positive intervention outcome indicated that a significantly larger proportion of the women showed a positive treatment effect after intervention, with a difference in recovery of 19% in dependence, 23% in pain and 33% in insecurity (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Gender differences in disability, with higher degrees of function-related dependence, pain and insecurity among women on admission for geriatric rehabilitation, can be diminished during the rehabilitation period. These promising results may have relevance for the public health of the elderly population.

Health-Related Quality of Life: Is It a Good Indicator of Function Post THR?

The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measured with the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) on Functional Recovery Status (physical and psychosocial recovery status) at base-line, 2 months, 6 months, and 12 months following total hip replacement (THR). A secondary analysis was performed using data gathered from a sample of 271 older adults post THR. Four empirically based hypothesized models were tested. None of the models fit the data, with each having significant chi2 values and chi2 /df ratios greater than 3. Different dimensions of HRQOL at baseline, 2, 6, and 12 months were related to physical recovery status, and none of the 8 dimensions of the SF-36 was significantly related to psychosocial recovery status. Overall, the results of this study do not support the hypothesis that HRQOL, as measured by the SF-36, comprehensively explains functional recovery status following THR. Clinically, these findings may be applicable to individuals at risk for poor recovery. They also may prompt practitioners to consider alternative factors that influence psychosocial recovery.

Geriatric rehabilitation nursing: Developing a model

In this paper, we describe a geriatric rehabilitation nursing model developed on the basis of the nursing and rehabilitation literature. That literature comprised some 120 articles addressing the rehabilitation of elderly patients and the work done by nurses in that process, various philosophical questions and the results of geriatric rehabilitation. One-third of these articles has been evaluated on the strength of the articles' evidence, and these are discussed in this paper. The findings show that the main factors in geriatric rehabilitation nursing are the patient with health or functional problems and the nurse with professional values, knowledge and skills. The patient is part of a family and the nurse works as part of a multidisciplinary team. In the geriatric rehabilitation process, the patient and the nurse work in close interaction. The aims of rehabilitation depend upon the patient's commitment to the objective and upon the nurse's commitment to help the patient achieve that objective. A health orientation, goal-oriented work, nursing decision-making and a rehabilitative approach to work are all central to this effort. Work is organized in multidisciplinary teams where nurses have equal responsibilities with other professional staff. Testing and development of the model is ongoing.

Testing of the Res-Care Pilot Intervention: impact on nursing assistants

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and effectiveness of a two-tiered motivational intervention--the Res-Care Pilot Intervention--on willingness of nursing assistants to participate in the Res-Care Intervention, the impact of the intervention on nursing assistants' self-efficacy, and outcome expectations related to restorative care, knowledge of restorative care, restorative care behaviors, and job satisfaction. A sample of 13 nursing assistants with an average age of 47.3 +/- 8.9 (range 29-56) years, the majority of whom were women (93%) and African American (77%), consented to participate in the study. There was a statistically significant increase in outcome expectations related to restorative care activities (F = 8.9, P <.05), a nonsignificant trend toward increased knowledge of restorative care (F = 1.4, P > .05) and documented time doing restorative care activities (F = -.56, P > .05), and no difference in self-efficacy expectations (F = .58, P > .05) or job satisfaction (F = .48, P > .05). The findings provide useful information for future research in restorative care.

Evidence Review on Older People's Views and Experiences of Falls Prevention Strategies

BACKGROUND

A systematic review was undertaken of qualitative and quantitative studies and reviews that focus on older people's views and experiences of falls prevention. The review was undertaken to provide an additional dimension to the clinical effectiveness evidence provided by a Cochrane review on falls prevention (Gillespie et al. 2003) to inform the development of a national guideline on falls prevention in older people. As guideline recommendations or policies relating to preventive strategies have the potential to increase health care costs, it is important that all sources of evidence are reviewed by guideline development groups so that an understanding is achieved of the acceptability and sustainability of interventions in relation to different groups and settings.

METHOD

Accordingly, this review examined the literature on the views, preferences, and experiences of older people in relation to falls prevention strategies. Twenty-four studies meeting the inclusion criteria were critically reviewed and were then summarized into evidence tables. The key facilitators and barriers to participation in falls prevention programs were derived from the commonly occurring and consistent themes arising from the reviewed studies. The implications of these findings for the clinical effectiveness review conclusions were then taken into account.

FINDINGS

Several important findings emerged. These included preferences for falls prevention strategies not involving behaviour change among some groups, the need to promote the social value of falls prevention programs, and the importance of identifying and addressing factors associated with activity avoidance.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

In terms of the impact of these findings on the Cochrane review, the most important implication is that although trials of multifactorial falls prevention packages have reported beneficial results, in clinical practice it is important to consult with individual potential participants and find out what characteristics they are willing to modify, and what changes they are prepared to make to reduce their risk of falling. Otherwise, there is the risk that expensive programs are not properly targeted or fail to achieve maximum participation rates. Further work on the most robust and pragmatic methods of synthesizing disparate studies on patients' views and preferences to inform evidence-based guideline recommendations is needed.

Increased physiotherapy in sheltered housing in Sweden: a study of structure and process in elderly care

The effect of increasing the level of physiotherapy services in elderly care was studied using an intervention and a control unit. The units had 20 and 2 hours of physiotherapy services per week, respectively. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy records were reviewed before and during the project. Physiotherapists also kept extended documentation over an 11-month period. Data analyses employed the chi-square test and content analysis. There was a significant increase in the number of patients receiving physiotherapy and occupational therapy within both units. No significant differences between the units were found for the number of patients receiving physiotherapy. The number of patients receiving occupational therapy differed significantly between units before as well as during the intervention. Primarily care assistants and auxiliary nurses initiated contact with the physiotherapists mainly for patient-orientated errands. Fifty per cent of the instructions given by the physiotherapist at the 20-hour unit related to movement-orientated activities of daily living. At the 2-hour unit, the majority of instructions (52%) were programme-orientated.

Exercise intervention in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (CE)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by worsening airflow obstruction. In its late stages, patients experience decreased physical function and increased incidents of pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension, cor pulmonale, and chronic respiratory failure. Patients who regularly participate in moderate exercise experience greater control of symptoms and increased functional capacity compared with those being treated by pharmacologic measures alone. Guidelines for a comprehensive exercise program are provided. The Seven Step Approach is discussed as a means of motivating older adults with COPD to incorporate physical exercise into their daily activity. Encouraging exercise in older adults with COPD will help these individuals reach and maintain their highest level of function and quality of life.

Restorative care nursing activities: pilot testing self-efficacy and outcome expectation measures

Implementing restorative care programs often involves changing the behavior of individuals who work in long-term care settings. The theory of self-efficacy has been used to facilitate such change. The purpose of this study was to test two new measures, the Self-efficacy for Restorative Care Nursing Activities and the Outcome Expectancy for Restorative Care Activities. The study included a sample of 27 nursing assistants; testing was done at baseline and repeated 2 weeks later. Developing reliable and valid measures of self-efficacy and outcome expectations for nursing assistants' performance of restorative care activities is useful to help establish weaknesses in the expectations of nursing assistants and allow for the development and testing of interventions to strengthen self-efficacy and outcome expectations related to restorative care activities and thereby improve adherence among nursing assistants.

Discrepancies between patients and professionals in the assessment of patient needs: a quantitative study of Norwegian mental health care

BACKGROUND

Sensitivity to and respect for the user perspective are important facets of user-centred services and empowerment in contemporary mental health care. Little is known about the extent to which new policies influence mental health work in practice.

AIMS

To investigate discrepancy between patients and professionals in the assessment of patient needs. Analyses could indicate emphasis on user orientation in Norwegian mental health care.

METHODS

Patients and their respective health professionals (n = 1080) completed separate questionnaires regarding patient characteristics and needs. Identifiers were removed from the data locally and then entered into a national database. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis were used to explore mean levels of discrepancy and predictors of discrepancy.

RESULTS

Mean discrepancy was low, as, on average, 30 of the listed 40 needs were considered absent by both the patients and their respective professional. However, the parties showed distinct disagreement as to the amount and type of needs that were present. Specifically, professionals identified more needs than patients (9.3 vs. 4.3, respectively) and this difference was characterized by a strong professional emphasis on needs regarding professional monitoring and follow-up. Results showed that symptoms of severe cognitive disability were over-represented in the group of patients with the highest level of discrepancy, however, the majority of high-discrepancy patients were not severely disabled on cognitive functions. A multiple regression analysis revealed 10 predictors of high discrepancy.

DISCUSSION

A low professional emphasis on user-orientation may be indicated in some cases. Results are discussed with relation to the tension between autonomy and beneficence. Suggestions for practice and further research conclude the paper.

Geriatric rehabilitation: the influence of efficacy beliefs and motivation

The theory of self-efficacy is that the more one believes in the efficacy of a specific activity, the more likely (motivated) one is to perform that activity. Most of the research into self-efficacy beliefs among older adults has been quantitative and has consistently supported the influence of those beliefs on behavior. However, it has not been established how efficacy beliefs actually influence motivation in older adults, or what sources of efficacy-enhancing information help strengthen those beliefs. The purpose of this study was to better understand the factors that influence the efficacy beliefs that motivate older adults in a rehabilitation program, and to uncover the relation between efficacy beliefs, motivation, and behavior (i.e., participation in rehabilitation activities). Seventy-seven older adults, 55 women and 22 men, in an inpatient geriatric rehabilitation program were interviewed. Through content analysis, 11 major themes were identified as factors that influence efficacy beliefs and motivate people to participate in rehabilitation: personal expectations, personality, role models, verbal encouragement, progress, past experiences, spirituality, physical sensations, individualized care, social supports, and goals. The findings support the theory of self-efficacy, and are best explained within a social cognitive theory framework.

Functional performance and exercise of older adults in long-term care settings

Performing functional activities and exercising are important for older adults living in long-term care settings. Participation in these activities not only improves and maintains function in older adults but also can improve physical and emotional health and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to explore the variables that influence functional performance and exercise activity in a group of nursing home residents. Participants included 59 residents in a long-term care facility. The mean age of participants was 88 +/- 6.9, and the majority were women (76%), White (97%), and unmarried (76%). Residents participated in a single face-to-face interview. Chart reviews for demographic and health information also were performed. Based on stepwise multiple regression analyses, upper and lower extremity contractures and cognitive status were the only variables that significantly influenced functional performance and accounted for 49% of the variance in function. Self-efficacy and outcome expectations were the only variables to significantly influence exercise behavior and accounted for 57% of the variance in this behavior. These findings can be used to help develop and implement effective restorative nursing care programs in long-term care settings.