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Sheppard CL, Myers AM, Hesjedahl S. Using Travel Diaries to Examine the Extent to Which Older Adult Centres Are a Focal Point for Recreation and Social Activities. Can J Aging 2023; 42:495-505. [PMID: 37439086 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980823000120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to better understand the extent to which older adult centres are a focal point for recreation and social activities for their members. Travel diaries completed by 261 members of 12 older adult centres across Ontario provided comprehensive and real-time (24-hour) data over two consecutive weeks concerning time away from home, trip purposes, and modes of travel. The data showed that nearly one-third of their trips included a stop at their older adult centre. Three-quarters also went to other community venues over the study period, possibly to access amenities (e.g., pools) not available at their centre. Notwithstanding, their local older adult centre was still a focal point in out-of-home travel, particularly for potentially more vulnerable older adults, including those who were non-drivers, had less education, and felt lonelier. The diaries also substantiated the importance of time spent socializing with peers and staff at the centre, apart from formal program participation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anita M Myers
- School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Sue Hesjedahl
- Older Adult Centres' Association of Ontario, Caledon, ON, Canada
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Larsson Ranada Å, Österholm J. Promoting Active and Healthy Ageing at Day Centers for Older People. ACTIVITIES, ADAPTATION & AGING 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2022.2028050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Åsa Larsson Ranada
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Science, Division of Prevention, Rehabilitation and Community Medicine, Unit of Occupational Therapy. Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
| | - Johannes Österholm
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Science, Division of Prevention, Rehabilitation and Community Medicine, Unit of Occupational Therapy. Linköping University, Norrköping, Sweden
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Lindquist LA, Muhammad R, Miller-Winder AP, Opsasnick L, Kim KY, Benavente JY, Wolf M, Ramirez-Zohfeld V. Rationale and study design for decision making & implementation of aging-in-place/long term care plans among older adults. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2021; 22:100756. [PMID: 33869887 PMCID: PMC8040099 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2021.100756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Remaining in one's own home and community is a priority for many older adults as they age. Decision-making and planning is critical to ensure successful aging-in-place (AIP), especially when individuals experience age-related changes such as cognitive decline. Objectives: We are testing how decision-making and planning for AIP is impacted by changes in older adults' cognition and function, chronic conditions, social influences, environmental factors and identifying the mediating/moderating interactions between factors. We will also assess whether decision-making and planning for AIP translates into timely adoption of plans and goal concordance between older adults and their surrogate/caregiver decision makers. METHODS We will conduct a longitudinal single-group interventional clinical trial of community-dwelling older adults who are enrolled in LitCog, (R01AG03611) and expose them to an online intervention, PlanYourLifespan.org, which facilitates decision-making and planning for AIP. Enrolled participants (n = 398) will complete interviews at baseline, one month, and every six months up to 42 months in conjunction with the LitCog study, where cognitive, social, functional, and health literacy data is collected. Additionally, we will collect data on decision-making, resource use, communication of plans, timing of plan implementation, and goal concordance. PROJECTED OUTCOMES Findings from this study may generate evidence on how age-related changes in older adults may affect decision-making and implementation in relation to AIP as well as the impact of social relationships and support. Ultimately these findings may help shape the design of programs and practices that may improve the lives of older adults and the capacity of institutions to adapt to societal aging and AIP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee A. Lindquist
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ruqayyah Muhammad
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Amber P. Miller-Winder
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Lauren Opsasnick
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kwang-Youn Kim
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Julia Yoshino Benavente
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael Wolf
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vanessa Ramirez-Zohfeld
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Senior Consumer Motivations and Perceived Value of Robot Service Restaurants in Korea. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13052755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This research empirically tested a theoretical model by defining senior customers’ intentions to use robot service restaurants emerging in South Korea. Non-face-to-face services have become increasingly important for seniors. Therefore, restaurant marketers should cater to senior customers’ needs by sustaining robot service restaurants. The study analyzed 243 questionnaires to verify the reliability and validity of the measurement items. The research hypotheses were examined using structural equation modeling (SEM). The suggested model comprised three stages: motivated consumer innovativeness (MCI), perceived value, and planned behavior (attitude, intention to use). The results revealed that senior customers’ perceived values positively influenced attitude and were enhanced by hedonically MCI (hMCI) and socially MCI. Moreover, the hedonic and social elements of motivation improved the attitude and usage intentions of robot service restaurants for senior customers. However, these relationships differed in terms of the income level of the customer groups. For the low-income senior-level group, hMCI was more influential on the perceived value. This study is meaningful because it analyzes the effect of MCI of seniors on the perceived value of robot service restaurants, which are growing rapidly in South Korea. It has empirically proved the moderating effect of different income groups, providing practical implications.
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Keyes L, Li Q, Collins B, Rivera-Torres S. Senior Center Service Utilization: Do Social Ties Affect Participation Patterns? J Appl Gerontol 2020; 41:526-533. [PMID: 33267712 DOI: 10.1177/0733464820975905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A better understanding of service utilization patterns at senior service centers can improve program development and constituent usage. THEORY This research examines whether participation in senior center activities is a function of senior socialization that reinforces and supports existing social ties by selecting specific activities in senior centers. METHODS A total of 924 participants of senior centers in a municipality in the Southwest were surveyed. RESULTS We find that having closer friends influences participation in certain senior center services. We also find that gender, race, ethnicity, and income also explain different usage rates beyond age. CONCLUSION Opportunities to foster social interaction to grow and reduce barriers to participation and market to a broader range of current and potential participants are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Qiwei Li
- University of North Texas, Denton, USA
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Brunt A, Strommen J, Stangl C. Reinventing the Traditional Senior Center in Rural Areas to Attract a New Generation of Individuals. ACTIVITIES, ADAPTATION & AGING 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2019.1581025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ardith Brunt
- College of Human Development and Education, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - Jane Strommen
- College of Human Development and Education, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
| | - Christa Stangl
- College of Human Development and Education, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
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Orellana K, Manthorpe J, Tinker A. Day centres for older people: a systematically conducted scoping review of literature about their benefits, purposes and how they are perceived. AGEING & SOCIETY 2020; 40:73-104. [PMID: 31798195 PMCID: PMC6889849 DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x18000843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
With a policy shift towards personalisation of adult social care in England, much attention has focused on individualised support for older people with care needs. This article reports the findings of a scoping review of United Kingdom (UK) and non-UK literature, published in English from 2005-2017, about day centres for older people without dementia and highlights the gaps in evidence. This review, undertaken to inform new empirical research, covered the perceptions, benefits and purposes of day centres. Searches, undertaken in October/November 2014 and updated in August 2017, of electronic databases, libraries, websites, research repositories and journals, identified seventy-seven relevant papers, mostly non-UK. Day centres were found to play a variety of roles for individuals and in care systems. The largest body of evidence concerned social and preventive outcomes. Centre attendance and participation in interventions within them impacted positively on older people's mental health, social contacts, physical function and quality of life. Evidence about outcomes is mainly non-UK. Day centres for older people without dementia are under-researched generally, particularly in the UK. In addition to not being studied as whole services, there are considerable evidence gaps about how day centres are perceived, their outcomes, what they offer, to whom and their wider stakeholders, including family carers, volunteers, staff and professionals who are funding, recommending or referring older people to them.
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Torres S, Cao X. Improving Care for Elders Who Prefer Informal Spaces to Age-Separated Institutions and Health Care Settings. Innov Aging 2019; 3:igz019. [PMID: 31346555 PMCID: PMC6645174 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igz019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives Despite advantages of urban areas (such as walkability, public transportation, nearby shopping, and health care services), challenges remain for elders aging in place to access care. The changing demographics of older adults, with higher rates of divorce, singlehood, and childlessness, often living alone and far from family, necessitate new strategies to support health and well-being. Research Design and Methods Drawing on 5 years of ethnographic fieldwork and 25 interviews with elders in New York City, this study presents empirical insights into older adults’ use of “third places” close to home, in conjunction with more formal settings. Results This article identifies external and internalized ageism and complicated age-based identity as important reasons why older adults preferred “third places” to age-separated spaces such as senior centers and formal settings such as health care settings. We find that neighborhood “third places” offer important physical venues for older adults to process negative or hurried interactions in other formal and age-separated places. Discussion and Implications This article makes policy suggestions for increasing access and usage of essential services, including developing attractive and appealing intergenerational spaces in which older community members can obtain services and dispatching caseworkers to public spaces where elders congregate. Furthermore, this article recommends improving exchanges between health care providers and older adults so that they feel recognized, respected, and cared for, which can improve health care outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Torres
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of California, San Francisco
| | - Xuemei Cao
- Department of Sociology, University at Albany, New York
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Dare J, Wilkinson C, Marquis R, Donovan RJ. "The people make it fun, the activities we do just make sure we turn up on time." Factors influencing older adults' participation in community-based group programmes in Perth, Western Australia. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2018; 26:871-881. [PMID: 30027632 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.12600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Rapid ageing in western societies is placing increasing strain on health and social care services. In response, governments and health agencies have sought to promote healthy ageing through a range of interventions, many of which aim to enhance social engagement and participation among older people. Such interventions are based on evidence that being socially engaged through participation in various activities leads to better physical, mental and psychosocial health outcomes. The research reported here employed focus groups and individual interviews to address research aims: (a) identify enablers and barriers to participation in community-based group activities among a sample of older people (n = 35, median age 71 years) living in a local government area in the northern suburbs of Perth, Western Australia, and (b) examine how these factors differ between those who regularly participate and those who do not. Our research highlighted four themes: Friendship and Function; Availability and Accessibility; Competing Responsibilities and Priorities; and Changing of the Guard. In particular, this research highlighted the importance of group activities in offering social support as a platform to develop friendships. The findings also indicated that opportunities for social interaction should be embedded in the structure of the group, beyond that which may occur incidentally during activities. This is important, given that while interest may motivate older people to join a group, a sense of belonging and connectedness generated through the group is more likely to maintain their attendance. Barriers included limited availability of local programmes, limited accessibility related to programme scheduling, and lack of programmes relevant to those who do not find traditional seniors' centres appealing. Recommendations include incorporating social engagement as an outcome measure when evaluating the efficacy of programmes targeting older people, and encouraging local governments to work with seniors' centres in developing activities attractive to a broader cohort of older people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Dare
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Celia Wilkinson
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Ruth Marquis
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
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Abstract
RÉSUMÉLes centres pour personnes âgées ont été identifiés comme des points focaux pour la prestation de services pour la population vieillissante, qui est en forte croissance au Canada et aux États-Unis. Malgré ce rôle important des centres pour personnes âgées, peu de recherches leur ont été consacrées. Cet examen de portée a ciblé les études empiriques en langue anglaise portant sur les centres pour personnes âgées qui ont été publiées dans des revues scientifiques depuis 2000. Un total de 58 études ont été repérées (n = 51 pour les études américaines, n = 7 pour les études canadiennes). La majorité de ces articles était centrée sur des thèmes liés à la participation d’individus dans les centres pour personnes âgées, et quelques études seulement traitaient du milieu associé aux centres pour personnes âgées. Ces résultats suggèrent que les recherches futures devraient cibler les avantages de la programmation des centres pour personnes âgées, avec une attention particulière sur les besoins des baby-boomers, sur les facteurs clés liés au financement, aux espaces et au personnel, ainsi que sur les caractéristiques et les rôles des centres pour personnes âgées dans le contexte canadien.
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Lindquist LA, Ramirez-Zohfeld V, Forcucci C, Sunkara P, Cameron KA. Overcoming Reluctance to Accept Home-Based Support from an Older Adult Perspective. J Am Geriatr Soc 2018; 66:1796-1799. [DOI: 10.1111/jgs.15526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lee A. Lindquist
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine; Northwestern University; Chicago Illinois
| | - Vanessa Ramirez-Zohfeld
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine; Northwestern University; Chicago Illinois
| | - Chris Forcucci
- Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana; Fort Wayne Indiana
| | - Priya Sunkara
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine; Northwestern University; Chicago Illinois
| | - Kenzie A. Cameron
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine; Northwestern University; Chicago Illinois
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Hewson JA, Kwan C, Shaw M, Lai DWL. Developing Age-Friendly Social Participation Strategies: Service Providers’ Perspectives about Organizational and Sector Readiness for Aging Baby Boomers. ACTIVITIES, ADAPTATION & AGING 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2017.1398034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Crystal Kwan
- Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Marta Shaw
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel W. L. Lai
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Lindquist LA, Ramirez-Zohfeld V, Sunkara PD, Forcucci C, Campbell DS, Mitzen P, Ciolino JD, Gregory D, Kricke G, Cameron KA. PlanYourLifeSpan.org - an intervention to help seniors make choices for their fourth quarter of life: Results from the randomized clinical trial. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2017; 100:1996-2004. [PMID: 28689855 PMCID: PMC6065258 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2017.06.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/24/2017] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Few older adults contemplate their home support and health needs that may be required for aging-in-place. We sought to assess the efficacy of PlanYourLifespan.org (PYL), in influencing seniors' planning behaviors, perception of the importance of planning, and confidence accessing services. METHOD Randomized controlled trial, of adults, age ≥65 years in urban, suburban, rural areas of Texas, Illinois, Indiana. RESULTS Among 385 participants, mean age was 71.9 years, 79.5% female. Between baseline and one-month follow-up, average planning behavior score increased 0.22 points in the PYL arm when compared to the attention control (AC) arm. After controlling for baseline, mean one-month planning behavior score was significantly higher in the PYL arm than in the AC arm (1.25 points, CI 0.37-2.12, p=0.005). Secondary analyses via longitudinal linear mixed modelling suggested a study arm-by-time interaction effect for both planning behavior (p=0.047 and perception of importance (p=0.05). Significant baseline covariates included self-efficacy, education, perceived social support, power of attorney, and history of stroke. CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS PlanYourLifespan.org demonstrated efficacy in helping seniors plan for and communicate their health support needs. This free, nationally available tool may help individuals understand, plan, and communicate their options for their future support needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee A Lindquist
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL,USA.
| | - Vanessa Ramirez-Zohfeld
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL,USA
| | - Priya D Sunkara
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL,USA
| | - Chris Forcucci
- Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana, Fort Wayne, IN, USA
| | | | | | - Jody D Ciolino
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL,USA; Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dyanna Gregory
- Division of Gastroenterology-Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Gayle Kricke
- Center for Healthcare Studies, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL USA
| | - Kenzie A Cameron
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL,USA; Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Ellen ME, Demaio P, Lange A, Wilson MG. Adult Day Center Programs and Their Associated Outcomes on Clients, Caregivers, and the Health System: A Scoping Review. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2017; 57:e85-e94. [DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnw165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Advanced life events (ALEs) that impede aging-in-place among seniors. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2016; 64:90-5. [PMID: 26952382 PMCID: PMC6065259 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite the wishes of many seniors to age-in-place in their own homes, critical events occur that impede their ability to do so. A gap exists as to what these advanced life events (ALEs) entail and the planning that older adults perceive is necessary. The purpose of this study was to identify seniors' perceptions and planning toward ALEs that may impact their ability to remain in their own home. We conducted focus groups with 68 seniors, age ≥65 years (mean age 73.8 years), living in the community (rural, urban, and suburban), using open-ended questions about perceptions of future heath events, needs, and planning. Three investigators coded transcriptions using constant comparative analysis to identify emerging themes, with disagreements resolved via consensus. Subjects identified five ALEs that impacted their ability to remain at home: (1) Hospitalizations, (2) Falls, (3) Dementia, (4) Spousal Loss, and (5) Home Upkeep Issues. While recognizing that ALEs frequently occur, many subjects reported a lack of planning for ALEs and perceived that these ALEs would not happen to them. Themes for the rationale behind the lack of planning emerged as: uncertainty in future, being too healthy/too sick, offspring influences, denial/procrastination, pride, feeling overwhelmed, and financial concerns. Subjects expressed reliance on offspring for navigating future ALEs, although many had not communicated their needs with their offspring. Overcoming the reasons for not planning for ALEs is crucial, as being prepared for future home needs provides seniors a voice in their care while engaging key supporters (e.g., offspring).
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Pardasani M, Sackman B. New York City Senior Centers: A Unique, Grassroots, Collaborative Advocacy Effort. ACTIVITIES ADAPTATION & AGING 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2014.935907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Lindquist LA, Cameron KA, Messerges-Bernstein J, Friesema E, Zickuhr L, Baker DW, Wolf M. Hiring and screening practices of agencies supplying paid caregivers to older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 2012; 60:1253-9. [PMID: 22724430 PMCID: PMC3396775 DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.2012.04047.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess what screening practices agencies use in hiring caregivers and how caregiver competency is measured before assigning responsibilities in caring for older adults. DESIGN One-to-one phone interviews in which interviewers posed as prospective clients seeking a caregiver for an older adult relative. SETTING Cross-sectional cohort of agencies supplying paid caregivers to older adults in Illinois, California, Florida, Colorado, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Indiana. PARTICIPANTS Four hundred sixty-two home care agencies were contacted, of which 84 were no longer in service, 165 offered only nursing care, and 33 were excluded; 180 agencies completed interviews. MEASUREMENTS Agencies were surveyed about their hiring methods, screening measures, training practices, skill competencies assessments, and supervision. Two coders qualitatively analyzed open-ended responses. RESULTS To recruit caregivers, agencies primarily used print and Internet (e.g., Craigslist.com) advertising (n = 69, 39.2%) and word-of-mouth referrals (n = 49, 27.8%). In hiring, agencies required prior "life experiences" (n = 121, 68.8%) few of which (n = 33, 27.2%) were specific to caregiving. Screening measures included federal criminal background checks (n = 96, 55.8%) and drug testing (n = 56, 31.8%). Agencies stated that the paid caregiver could perform skills, such as medication reminding (n = 169, 96.0%). Skill competency was assessed according to caregiver self-report (n = 103, 58.5%), testing (n = 62, 35.2%), and client feedback (n = 62, 35.2%). General caregiver training length ranged from 0 to 7 days. Supervision ranged from none to weekly and included home visits, telephone calls, and caregivers visiting the central office. CONCLUSION Using an agency to hire paid caregivers may give older adults and their families a false sense of security regarding the background and skill set of the caregiver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee A Lindquist
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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Lindquist LA, Tam K, Friesema E, Martin GJ. Paid caregiver motivation, work conditions, and falls among senior clients. Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2012; 55:442-5. [PMID: 22360830 DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2012.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2011] [Revised: 01/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the motivation of paid non-familial caregivers of seniors, understand more about their work conditions, and identify any links to negative outcomes among their senior clients. Ninety-eight paid caregivers (eighty-five female and thirteen male), recruited from multiple sites (i.e. senior centers, shopping malls, local parks, lobbies of senior apartments, caregiver agency meetings) completed face-to-face questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. We found that 60.7% of participants chose to become a caregiver because they enjoyed being with seniors while 31.7% were unable to obtain other work, and 8.2% stated it was a prerequisite to a different health related occupation. Caregivers stated that the most challenging conditions of their work were physical lifting (24.5%), behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (24.5%), senior depression/mood changes (18.4%), attachment with impending death (8.2%), missing injuries to client (5.1%), lack of sleep (4.1%), and lack of connection with outside world (3.1%). Caregivers who reported that the best part of their job was the salary, flexible hours, and ease of work were significantly more likely to have clients who fell and fractured a bone than those who enjoyed being with seniors (job characteristics, 62.5% vs. senior enjoyment, 25.6%; p<0.004). We concluded that in pursuing their occupation, paid caregivers are motivated commonly by their love of seniors and also by their lack of other job opportunities. Paid caregivers frequently face challenging work conditions. When seeking a caregiver for a senior, motivation of the caregiver should be considered when hiring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee A Lindquist
- Division of Geriatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.
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