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Teti S, Murray LL, Orange JB, Page AD, Kankam KS. Telehealth Assessments and Interventions for Individuals With Poststroke Aphasia: A Scoping Review. Am J Speech Lang Pathol 2023; 32:1360-1375. [PMID: 37120860 DOI: 10.1044/2023_ajslp-22-00324] [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] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There are increasing demands for aphasia assessment and intervention services to be delivered remotely. The purpose of this scoping review was to address what is known about the delivery of assessments and interventions using telehealth for people with poststroke aphasia. Specifically, the review sought to (a) identify which telehealth assessment protocols have been used, (b) identify which telehealth intervention protocols have been used, and (c) describe evidence on the effectiveness and feasibility of telehealth for people with poststroke aphasia. METHOD A scoping review of the literature published in English since 2013 was conducted by searching MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus databases to identify relevant studies. A total of 869 articles were identified. Two reviewers screened records independently, finding 25 articles eligible for inclusion. Data extraction was conducted once and validated by the second reviewer. RESULTS Two of the included studies examined telehealth assessment protocols, whereas the remaining studies focused on the delivery of telehealth interventions. The results of the included studies illustrated both effectiveness and feasibility regarding telehealth for people with poststroke aphasia. However, a lack of procedural variation among the studies was found. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this scoping review yielded continued support for the use of telehealth practices as an alternate mode of delivering both assessment and intervention services to people with poststroke aphasia. However, further research is needed to investigate the range of aphasia assessment and intervention protocols that can be offered via telehealth, such as assessments or interventions that use patient-reported measures or address extralinguistic cognitive abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Teti
- Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura L Murray
- Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, Western University, London, Ontario
| | - J B Orange
- Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, Western University, London, Ontario
| | - Allyson D Page
- Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Keren S Kankam
- Health & Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Mundadan RG, Savundranayagam MY, Orange JB, Murray L. Language-Based Strategies that Support Person-Centered Communication in Formal Home Care Interactions with Persons Living with Dementia. J Appl Gerontol 2023; 42:639-650. [PMID: 36464843 PMCID: PMC9996793 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221142852] [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: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Language-based strategies are recommended to improve coherence, clarity, reciprocity, and continuity of interactions with persons living with dementia. Person-centered care is the gold standard for caring for persons with dementia. Person-centered communication (PCC) strategies include facilitation, recognition, validation, and negotiation. Little is known about which language-based strategies support PCC in home care. Accordingly, this study investigated the overlap between language-based strategies and PCC in home care interactions. Analysis of conversation of 30 audio-recorded interactions between personal support workers (PSWs) and persons living with dementia was conducted. The overlap between PCC and language-based strategies was analyzed. Of 11,347 communication units, 2578 overlapped with PCC. For facilitation, 21% were yes/no questions. For recognition, 25% were yes/no questions and 22% were affirmations. For validation, 81% were affirmations and positive feedback. Finally, 60% were yes/no questions for negotiation. The findings highlight the person-centeredness of language-based strategies. PSWs should use diverse language-based strategies that are person-centered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reanne G Mundadan
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, 6221Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | | | - J B Orange
- School of Communications Sciences and Disorders, 6221Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Laura Murray
- School of Communications Sciences and Disorders, 6221Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Garnett A, Prentice K, Booth R, Donelle L, Orange JB, Webster F. Social Isolation in Community-Dwelling Older Adults During COVID-19: Understanding the Role of Resilience. Inquiry 2023; 60:469580221148880. [PMID: 36680364 PMCID: PMC9871445 DOI: 10.1177/00469580221148880] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic increased social isolation for many older adults, causing concern for their health and well-being. To enhance understanding of how community-dwelling older adults were impacted by prolonged social isolation during COVID-19, a qualitative descriptive study was conducted to: (1) explore the self-reported factors supporting their resilience during COVID-19 related social isolation, and (2) to help understand the intentional and unintentional outcomes of the government mandated health measures. A total of 19 community dwelling older adults were sampled. Factors that supported older adults' resilience during COVID-19 included maintaining positivity, drawing on historical experiences of resilience and finding opportunities to connect with their community. However, collective safety came with losses: such as time, freedom, opportunity, engagement, and initiative. The findings provide insight on contributing factors to resilience against social isolation in older adults and suggest the value of collective, community-based approaches to build resilience across variable contexts in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Garnett
- Western University, London, ON,
Canada,Anna Garnett, Arthur Labatt Family School
of Nursing, Western University, FIMS & Nursing Building, Rm 2306, London, ON
N6A 5B9 Canada.
| | | | - R. Booth
- Western University, London, ON,
Canada
| | - L. Donelle
- University of South Carolina, Columbia,
SC, USA
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Haddad SMH, Scott CJM, Ozzoude M, Berezuk C, Holmes M, Adamo S, Ramirez J, Arnott SR, Nanayakkara ND, Binns M, Beaton D, Lou W, Sunderland K, Sujanthan S, Lawrence J, Kwan D, Tan B, Casaubon L, Mandzia J, Sahlas D, Saposnik G, Hassan A, Levine B, McLaughlin P, Orange JB, Roberts A, Troyer A, Black SE, Dowlatshahi D, Strother SC, Swartz RH, Symons S, Montero-Odasso M, ONDRI Investigators, Bartha R. Comparison of Diffusion Tensor Imaging Metrics in Normal-Appearing White Matter to Cerebrovascular Lesions and Correlation with Cerebrovascular Disease Risk Factors and Severity. Int J Biomed Imaging 2022; 2022:5860364. [PMID: 36313789 PMCID: PMC9616672 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5860364] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in tissue microstructure in normal-appearing white matter (NAWM), specifically measured by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) fractional anisotropy (FA), have been associated with cognitive outcomes following stroke. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively compare conventional DTI measures of tissue microstructure in NAWM to diverse vascular brain lesions in people with cerebrovascular disease (CVD) and to examine associations between FA in NAWM and cerebrovascular risk factors. DTI metrics including fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD), and radial diffusivity (RD) were measured in cerebral tissues and cerebrovascular anomalies from 152 people with CVD participating in the Ontario Neurodegenerative Disease Research Initiative (ONDRI). Ten cerebral tissue types were segmented including NAWM, and vascular lesions including stroke, periventricular and deep white matter hyperintensities, periventricular and deep lacunar infarcts, and perivascular spaces (PVS) using T1-weighted, proton density-weighted, T2-weighted, and fluid attenuated inversion recovery MRI scans. Mean DTI metrics were measured in each tissue region using a previously developed DTI processing pipeline and compared between tissues using multivariate analysis of covariance. Associations between FA in NAWM and several CVD risk factors were also examined. DTI metrics in vascular lesions differed significantly from healthy tissue. Specifically, all tissue types had significantly different MD values, while FA was also found to be different in most tissue types. FA in NAWM was inversely related to hypertension and modified Rankin scale (mRS). This study demonstrated the differences between conventional DTI metrics, FA, MD, AD, and RD, in cerebral vascular lesions and healthy tissue types. Therefore, incorporating DTI to characterize the integrity of the tissue microstructure could help to define the extent and severity of various brain vascular anomalies. The association between FA within NAWM and clinical evaluation of hypertension and disability provides further evidence that white matter microstructural integrity is impacted by cerebrovascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyyed M. H. Haddad
- Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Christopher J. M. Scott
- L.C. Campbell Cognitive Neurology Research Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Miracle Ozzoude
- L.C. Campbell Cognitive Neurology Research Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Melissa Holmes
- L.C. Campbell Cognitive Neurology Research Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sabrina Adamo
- Clinical Neurosciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Joel Ramirez
- L.C. Campbell Cognitive Neurology Research Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stephen R. Arnott
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nuwan D. Nanayakkara
- Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Malcolm Binns
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Derek Beaton
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Wendy Lou
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Kelly Sunderland
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Jane Lawrence
- Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, Thunder Bay, Canada
| | | | - Brian Tan
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Leanne Casaubon
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jennifer Mandzia
- Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Demetrios Sahlas
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | | | - Ayman Hassan
- Thunder Bay Regional Research Institute, Thunder Bay, Canada
| | - Brian Levine
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - J. B. Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Angela Roberts
- Roxelyn and Richard Pepper Department of Communication Sciences and Disorder, Northwestern University, Evanston, USA
| | - Angela Troyer
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sandra E. Black
- L.C. Campbell Cognitive Neurology Research Unit, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Research Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine (Neurology), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Stroke Research Program, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Stephen C. Strother
- Rotman Research Institute, Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Richard H. Swartz
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Stroke Research Program, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sean Symons
- Department of Medical Imaging, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Canada
| | - Manuel Montero-Odasso
- Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Parkwood Hospital, St. Joseph's Health Care London, London, Canada
| | - ONDRI Investigators
- Ontario Neurodegenerative Disease Initiative, Ontario Brain Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | - Robert Bartha
- Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Sultana M, Campbell K, Jennings M, Montero-Odasso M, Orange JB, Knowlton J, St George A, Bryant D. Virtual Reality Experience Intervention May Reduce Responsive Behaviors in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia: A Case Series. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 84:883-893. [PMID: 34602467 DOI: 10.3233/jad-210010] [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] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with advanced dementia often exhibit responsive behaviors such as apathy, depression, agitation, aggression, and psychosis. Non-pharmacological approaches (e.g., listening to music, watching television, doing arts and crafts) are now considered as a first-line strategy to manage responsive behaviors in clinical practice due to the potential risks associated with the antipsychotic medications. To date, no evaluations of immersive non-head mounted virtual reality (VR) experience as a non-pharmacologic approach for people with advanced dementia living in nursing homes have been reported. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the feasibility (acceptance and safety) of VR experience. METHODS A single site case series (nonrandomized and unblinded) with a convenience sample (N = 24; age = 85.8±8.6 years; Cognitive Performance Scale score = 3.4±0.6) measuring depression and agitation before and after the intervention. The intervention was a 30-min long research coordinator- facilitated VR experience for two weeks (10 sessions). RESULTS The intervention was feasible (attrition rate = 0% ; adverse events = 0). A reduction in depression and in agitation was observed after the intervention. However, we suggest extreme caution in interpreting this result considering the study design and small sample size. CONCLUSION This study provides the basis for conducting a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of VR experience on responsive behaviors in nursing homes. Since our intervention uses a smart remote-controlled projector without a headset, infectious exposure can be avoided following the COVID-19 pandemic-induced physical distancing policy in care homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munira Sultana
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Gait & Brain Lab, Parkwood Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Karen Campbell
- International Skin Tear Advisory Panel, Ottawa, ON, Canada.,Primacare Living Solutions Inc.TM, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Master of Clinical Science - Advanced Health Care Practice, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Morgan Jennings
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Manuel Montero-Odasso
- Gait & Brain Lab, Parkwood Institute, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Medicine and Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Geriatric Medicine, St. Joseph's Health Care, London, ON, Canada.,Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - J B Orange
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jill Knowlton
- Primacare Living Solutions Inc.TM, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Dianne Bryant
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.,School of Physical Therapy and Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry (Orthopaedic Surgery), Western University, London, ON, Canada.,Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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6
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Kamalraj P, Savundranayagam MY, Orange JB, Kloseck M. Communication in home care: Understanding the lived experiences of formal caregivers communicating with persons living with dementia. Int J Older People Nurs 2021; 16:e12401. [PMID: 34337872 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12401] [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: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about formal caregivers' lived experiences communicating with persons living with dementia (PLWD) who live in their own homes. Most information comes from research conducted in long-term care settings or home care settings involving family care partners. Yet, there are expected needs and rising demands for formal caregivers to provide support within clients' homes. OBJECTIVES Accordingly, this study aimed to understand the lived experiences of personal support workers (PSWs) regarding their communication with PLWD who live in their own homes. METHODS The study was grounded in a hermeneutic phenomenological research approach. Data were collected as part of the Be EPIC project, an evidence-informed, person-centred communication intervention for PSWs caring for PLWD. One, in-depth semi-structured interview was conducted with each of the PSWs (N = 15). Thematic analysis was completed on the interviews. RESULTS Three major themes emerged: (1) Challenged by dementia-related impairments; (2) Valuing communication in care; and (3) Home is a personal space. Findings revealed that PSWs experience difficulties communicating with PLWD because of dementia-related impairments, despite PSWs recognizing the importance of communication when they provide optimal care in the homes of PLWD. This suggests that PSWs view communication as a crucial component of quality care but do not possess the skills necessary to ensure effective interactions. Findings also demonstrated the importance, uniqueness and impact of the personal home space on PSWs' experiences with communication. CONCLUSION Overall, findings indicate that PSWs acknowledge the importance of communication as an integral element of providing optimal care, but dementia-related impairments and the intimate, personal home-based care context can hinder successful communication between PSWs and PLWD. The implications of the findings are that additional and targeted education and training are required for PSWs, especially on how dementia-related impairments impact communication within the context of home care based services for PLWD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pabiththa Kamalraj
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - J B Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marita Kloseck
- School of Health Studies, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Fishman KN, Roberts AC, Orange JB, Sunderland KM, Marras C, Tan B, Steeves T, Kwan D, Lang AE, Grimes D, Levine B, Masellis M, Binns MA, Jog M, Strother SC, Investigators O, McLaughlin PM, Troyer AK. Bilingualism in Parkinson's disease: Relationship to cognition and quality of life. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2021; 43:199-212. [PMID: 33827353 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2021.1902946] [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] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Some studies have found that bilingualism promotes cognitive reserve. OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine whether bilingualism, defined as regularly (i.e. daily) using at least two languages at least since early adulthood, is associated with cognitive advantages in Parkinson's disease (PD) or whether the possible benefits of bilingualism are lost in the context of PD, possibly affecting quality of life (QoL) and independence. METHOD Participants with idiopathic PD (n = 140, mean age = 67.9 [SD = 6.4], 78% men) completed standard neuropsychological tasks evaluating attention/working memory, language, executive function, memory, and visuospatial ability, as well as measures of wellbeing and functional independence. RESULTS Bilinguals with PD (n = 21) performed worse than monolinguals with PD (n = 92) on attention/working memory and language measures. The between-group differences in attention/working memory were restricted to verbally-based measures. When measured along a continuum, a higher degree of bilingualism was correlated with lower scores on measures of attention/working memory and language. There were no group differences in self- or informant-reported cognitive decline, PD health-related QoL, or functional independence. CONCLUSIONS Bilingualism in PD was not associated with better cognitive performance. Lower scores on language-based measures may reflect a distributed fund of linguistic information across more than one language, lower language proficiency in English, and/or other cultural artifacts. Furthermore, using normative data specific to the dominant language spoken or conducting neuropsychological testing in participants' self-reported most proficient language may enhance additional studies addressing this topic. Future research may also examine the roles of bilingualism over time and across other neurodegenerative diseases with and without EF impairment to illuminate further the impact of bilingualism on cognition and QoL, and shape culturally and linguistically diverse research and clinical care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keera N Fishman
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Angela C Roberts
- Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, USA.,, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - J B Orange
- , Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Connie Marras
- , University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian Tan
- Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Donna Kwan
- Queen's University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anthony E Lang
- , University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Grimes
- University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brian Levine
- Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mario Masellis
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Malcolm A Binns
- Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mandar Jog
- , Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen C Strother
- Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Paula M McLaughlin
- Queen's University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Angela K Troyer
- Baycrest Health Sciences, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Giroud N, Pichora-Fuller MK, Mick P, Wittich W, Al-Yawer F, Rehan S, Orange JB, Phillips NA. Hearing loss is associated with gray matter differences in older adults at risk for and with Alzheimer's disease. Aging Brain 2021; 1:100018. [PMID: 36911511 PMCID: PMC9997162 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbas.2021.100018] [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: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Using data from the COMPASS-ND study we investigated associations between hearing loss and hippocampal volume as well as cortical thickness in older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Alzheimer's dementia (AD). SCD participants with greater pure-tone hearing loss exhibited lower hippocampal volume, but more cortical thickness in the left superior temporal gyrus and right pars opercularis. Greater speech-in-noise reception thresholds were associated with lower cortical thickness bilaterally across much of the cortex in AD. The AD group also showed a trend towards worse speech-in-noise thresholds compared to the SCD group.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Giroud
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Research in Human Development, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Centre for Research on Brain, Language, and Music, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - M K Pichora-Fuller
- Department of Psychology, University of Toronto, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
| | - P Mick
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - W Wittich
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - F Al-Yawer
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Research in Human Development, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - S Rehan
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Research in Human Development, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - J B Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Canada
| | - N A Phillips
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Research in Human Development, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Centre for Research on Brain, Language, and Music, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Kamalraj P, Savundranayagam M, Orange JB, Kloseck M. Communication in Home Care: The Experiences of Formal Caregivers in Communicating with Persons Living with Dementia. Innov Aging 2020. [PMCID: PMC7740451 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa057.3312] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
There is limited literature on formal caregivers’ communication with persons living with dementia (PLWD) in home settings. Most research comes from studies of long-term care home settings or informal home care contexts. Yet, there are expected needs and rising demands for formal caregiver support within home care. The aim of this study was to understand better the lived experiences of personal support workers (PSWs) regarding their communication with PLWD in home settings. A hermeneutic phenomenological approach guided this research. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 PSW participants. Three major themes were identified through thematic analysis: (1) challenged by dementia-related impairments; (2) valuing communication in care; and (3) home is a personal space. PSWs experienced difficulties in their communication with PLWD despite recognizing the importance of communication in providing optimal home care. This suggests that while PSWs possess good intentions, they do not possess the skills necessary to ensure effective interactions. Dementia-specific education and training are recommended to improve PSWs’ communication skills and to enhance quality of care. Findings highlight further the uniqueness of the personal home space itself on PSWs experiences with communication. Aspects of the home care environment can enable, but also complicate, successful communication between PSWs and PLWD. Consequently, findings also have implications for family members of PLWD and home care employers regarding optimizing practice and improving care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J B Orange
- Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Sibalija J, Savundranayagam MY, Orange JB, Kloseck M. Social support, social participation, & depression among caregivers and non-caregivers in Canada: a population health perspective. Aging Ment Health 2020; 24:765-773. [PMID: 30521370 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2018.1544223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: The study used data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging to investigate the relationships among social support (measured as affectionate support, emotional/informational support, positive social interaction, tangible support), social participation and depression in caregivers and non-caregivers.Method: Hierarchical multiple regression was used to investigate relationships among social support, social participation, and depression. Analyses of variance were used to examine differences in the means of social support, social participation, and depression between the two participant groups.Results: Higher levels of affectionate support, positive social interaction, and social participation were associated with lower depression scores. Social participation was a significant mediator of the relationship between caregiver status and depression. Caregivers reported significantly higher levels of affectionate support, emotional/informational support, positive social interaction, and social participation than non-caregivers. There were no between-group difference in depression scores.Discussion: The study provides support for the beneficial role of social participation in preserving caregiver mental health. Results are discussed in the context of policy and practice implications for caregivers in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovana Sibalija
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
| | | | - J B Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Western University, London, Canada
| | - Marita Kloseck
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Canada
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11
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Savundranayagam MY, Williams KN, Basque S, Orange JB, Kloseck M, Schmall V, Johnson K. IMPACT OF THE BE EPIC: A PERSON-CENTERED COMMUNICATION INTERVENTION FOR HOME CARE WORKERS. Innov Aging 2019. [PMCID: PMC6846370 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igz038.2843] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study assessed the impact of Be EPIC, an innovative, evidence-informed and theoretically-grounded 6-week person-centered communication intervention for personal support workers (PSWs) caring for persons with dementia. Be EPIC focuses on [E]nvironment contexts for using [P]erson-centered communication, while considering client relationships ([I] matter too), and [C]lients’ abilities, life history and preferences during routine care. A pre- post-Be EPIC comparative design included an intervention (n=13) and a 6-week waitlist control group (n=10) who completed the same communication-related questionnaire. A Two-Way Mixed ANOVA showed a significant group by time interaction for perceived communication skill (F(1, 21) = 4.67, p = .042, ηp2= .18). Simple main effects analysis showed that participants who completed Be EPIC reported feeling more confident in communicating with persons with dementia (Mpre = 13.46; SD = .76; Mpost = 16.31, SD = .85). There was no significant change in the control group. Similarly, there was a significant group by time interaction for perceived helpfulness of communication strategies (F(1, 21) = 6.23, p = .021, ηp2 = .23). Simple main effects analysis showed that participants who completed Be EPIC reported significant increases in the helpfulness of effective communication strategies (Mpre = 36.92; SD = 3.42; Mpost = 43.15, SD = 3.21), with no significant change among controls. Findings indicate that Be EPIC enhanced PSWs’ confidence in communicating with persons with dementia and enhanced their perception of the helpfulness of effective communication strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - J B Orange
- Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Karen Johnson
- McCormick Dementia Services, London, Ontario, Canada
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McIlveen HA, Savundranayagam MY, Orange JB, Kloseck M. EMPOWERMENT AMONG FORMAL CAREGIVERS WORKING WITH PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA IN HOME CARE. Innov Aging 2019. [PMCID: PMC6840819 DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igz038.1742] [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] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
There is significant literature on workplace empowerment that focuses on individuals in positions of power rather than those who lack it. However, there is limited research on empowerment of home care workers, such as personal support workers (PSW) who work in dementia care. Empowerment is an active process based on a multifaceted model consisting of four components: meaning, self-determination, impact and competence. This study explored the roles of education and employer support in empowering PSWs to care for persons with dementia who live at home. Empowerment was investigated using semi-structured interviews with PSWs (N=15). A phenomenological approach was to understand the lived experiences of home-care based PSWs who work with persons with dementia. Components of empowerment were reflected through five emerging themes: “providing best care”, “autonomy”, “employer support”, “career long learning”, and “experiential learning”. The theme “providing best care possible” support the component of meaning, which included the motivation for training among PSWs and their value of aging in place. The theme “autonomy” supported the component of self-determination, which focused on PSW workload and feelings regarding their control working in home care versus long term care. The theme “employer support” supported the component impact, which included both PSW compensation and their perceived lack of emotional support. Finally, the themes “career-long learning” and “experiential learning”, were linked with impact and competence components, respectively. Overall, these findings support relationships between education and employer support in empowering PSWs who care for persons with dementia who live at home.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J B Orange
- Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
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Young JA, Lind C, Orange JB. A qualitative systematic review of experiences of persons with dementia regarding transition to long-term care. Dementia (London) 2019; 20:5-27. [PMID: 31335168 DOI: 10.1177/1471301219862439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The current qualitative systematic review identified and examined critically the literature on how persons with dementia experience transitions to long-term care. Results are intended to help develop guidelines for future care and research. METHOD A search was conducted of OvidSP, SCOPUS, Web of Science, ProQuest, PsycINFO, CINAHL, AgeLine and Informit databases. In total, 4705 articles were reviewed (published 1954-2018). A textual narrative approach was used to synthesise the findings of the included articles. RESULTS Seven articles met inclusion criteria (five using data collected from interviews with persons with dementia and two using reports from a proxy). Overall, the findings showed that transition to long-term care possesses varied meanings for persons with dementia, is often not the decision of the persons with dementia, and is a process throughout which social connections remain important. DISCUSSION Accounts of the experiences of persons with dementia regarding transitions from community to long-term care show that they and their families should be supported: with respect to their individual contexts, to share the positives and negatives of the transition experiences, to make decisions together, and to maintain old and establish new social connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Young
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Australia; Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, Canada
| | - Christopher Lind
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Australia
| | - J B Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, Canada; Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, Western University, Canada
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Savundranayagam MY, Orange JB. Matched and mismatched appraisals of the effectiveness of communication strategies by family caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease. Int J Lang Commun Disord 2014; 49:49-59. [PMID: 24372885 DOI: 10.1111/1460-6984.12043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication problems stemming from Alzheimer's disease (AD) often result in misunderstandings that can be linked with problem behaviours and increased caregiver stress. Moreover, these communication breakdowns also can result either from caregivers' use of ineffective communication strategies, which paradoxically are perceived as helpful, or can occur as a result of not using effective communication strategies that are perceived as unhelpful. AIMS The two primary aims were to determine the effectiveness of strategies used to resolve communication breakdowns and to examine whether caregivers' ratings of strategy effectiveness were consistent with evidence from video-recorded conversations and with effective communication strategies documented in the literature. METHODS & PROCEDURES Twenty-eight mealtime conversations were recorded using a sample of 15 dyads consisting of individuals with early, middle and late clinical-stage AD and their family caregivers. Conversations were analysed using the trouble-source repair paradigm to identify the communication strategies used by caregivers to resolve breakdowns. Family caregivers also rated the helpfulness of communication strategies used to resolve breakdowns. Analyses were conducted to assess the overlap or match between the use and appraisals of the helpfulness of communication strategies. OUTCOMES & RESULTS Matched and mismatched appraisals of communication strategies varied across stages of AD. Matched appraisals by caregivers of persons with early-stage AD were observed for 68% of 22 communication strategies, whereas caregivers of persons with middle- and late-stage AD had matched appraisals for 45% and 55% of the strategies, respectively. Moreover, caregivers of persons with early-stage AD had matched appraisals over and above making matched appraisals by chance alone, compared with caregivers of persons in middle- and late-stage AD. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS Mismatches illustrate the need for communication education and training, particularly to establish empirically derived evidence-based communication strategies over the clinical course of AD.
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Abstract
Approximately 36 million people have Alzheimer's disease worldwide, and many experience behavioral issues such as agitation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the perceptions of long-term care (LTC) staff regarding the current use of nonpharmacological interventions (NPIs) for reducing agitation in seniors with dementia and to identify facilitators and barriers that guide NPI implementation. Qualitative methods were used to gather data from interviews and focus groups. A total of 44 staff from 5 LTC facilities participated. Findings showed that both medications and NPIs are used for the management of agitation. The use of NPIs was facilitated by consistency in staffing, and the ability of all the staff members to implement them. Common barriers to NPI use included the perceived lack of time, low staff-to-resident ratios, and the unpredictable and short-lasting effectiveness of NPIs. This study offers insight into perceived factors that influence implementation of NPIs and the perceived effectiveness of NPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Janzen
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aleksandra A. Zecevic
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marita Kloseck
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - J. B. Orange
- Health and Rehabilitation Sciences Program, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- School of Communications Sciences and Disorders, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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Murphy MJ, Grace GM, Tartaglia MC, Orange JB, Chen X, Rowe A, Findlater K, Kozak RI, Freedman M, Lee TY, Strong MJ. Widespread cerebral haemodynamics disturbances occur early in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 13:202-9. [PMID: 22292841 DOI: 10.3109/17482968.2011.625569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We wished to longitudinally assess early changes in cerebral perfusion (CP) and its relationship to cognitive impairment (CI) in ALS. Fourteen ALS patients at time of diagnosis and 11 spousal controls, both without CI, were longitudinally assessed to determine a relationship between CP and incidence of CI in early stage disease. Neuropsychological testing and CP measurements were performed in both ALS and control groups at the initial assessment (T0) and two time-periods post initial assessment, T1 and T2, taken on average 6.1 and 17.0 months after initial assessment (T0), respectively. CT perfusion was used to measure cerebral blood flow, blood volume, and mean transit time (MTT) for all cortical lobes, and subcortical grey and white matter. Two of 14 ALS patients progressed to CI. No differences in CP measurements existed at T0 or T1 between the ALS and control groups. At T2, widespread cortical differences in MTT were present between the two groups. The ALS group had significantly increased MTT in all cortical regions, as well as the thalamus, compared with the control group. Our findings suggest early widespread changes in CP occur outside the motor area in the absence of CI in ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Murphy
- Imaging Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a multisystem disease that significantly impacts communication as a function of changes in motor speech, cognition, and language skills. Although discourse tasks have been used to assess language in a variety of acquired disorders, little work to date has been published on changes in discourse in ALS and even less work has evaluated these changes with disease progression. In the present study, discourse samples (gained from a picture description task) as well as standardized language test measures obtained from 16 individuals with ALS without dementia and 12 healthy controls (collected over a duration of 24 months). Discourse samples were analyzed for both productivity and content. Results indicate that there were no differences for ALS versus controls for any of the standardized language tests. However, findings suggest that discourse analysis methods may be more sensitive for identifying subtle language deficits in ALS. Overall, discourse productivity appears less impaired than discourse content for individuals with ALS. Although there was a general trend for decline in language performance over the study duration, there was the suggestion of subgroups of language performance among ALS participants. The results suggest that subtle cognitive language deficits that affect discourse emerge early in ALS and progress with disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Roberts-South
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Grace GM, Orange JB, Rowe A, Findlater K, Freedman M, Strong MJ. Neuropsychological functioning in PLS: a comparison with ALS. Can J Neurol Sci 2011; 38:88-97. [PMID: 21156436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In order to characterize the nature and extent of neuropsychological dysfunction in primary lateral sclerosis (PLS), we studied prospectively cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning in PLS, and compared performances to functioning in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). METHODS Eighteen patients with PLS and 13 patients with ALS completed a neuropsychological test battery assessing both cognitive skills and emotional/behavioral functioning. RESULTS Both PLS and ALS groups scored broadly within normal limits (mean T-scores greater than 40) on all cognitive measures and no significant between-group differences were found with the exception of one variable. However, when examined on a case by case basis, the data revealed considerable heterogeneity amongst patients in both groups. Overall, 39% of PLS patients and 31% of ALS patients were considered cognitively impaired. Ahigher than expected frequency of abnormal scores was noted for several tests of executive function in both groups, and a majority of PLS patients also exhibited abnormal behavioural symptoms. There was no relationship in PLS or ALS groups between cognitive functioning and disease duration, current site of disease, site of onset, functional status, and respiratory variables. Comparison between the PLS and ALS groups indicated virtually no differences in cognitive test scores and overall emotional/behavioural symptoms. CONCLUSIONS We observed deficits in cognition and behaviour in a significant proportion of PLS patients which were comparable to those observed in ALS cases. Although deficits were not in the range of frontotemporal dementia, both ALS and PLS cases demonstrated deficits most prominently on tests of executive functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria M Grace
- Clinical Neurological Sciences and Psychological Services, London Health Sciences Centre, Ontario
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Shanti C, Johnson J, Meyers AM, Jones GR, Fitzgerald C, Lazowski DA, Stolee P, Orange JB, Segall N, Ecclestone NA. Evaluation of the Restorative Care Education and Training Program for Nursing Homes. Can J Aging 2010; 24:115-26. [PMID: 16082615 DOI: 10.1353/cja.2005.0065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACTRestorative care attempts to break the cycle of dependency and functional decline in nursing homes by addressing individual resident needs. The Restorative Care Education and Training (RCET) Program consists of a five-week workshop and resource manual for both supervisory and direct care staff. This paper describes the RCET approach and presents the implementation, process, and quasi-experimental outcome evaluation findings with 42 residents from six intervention sites and six “wait-list” facilities who received usual care. Baseline data supported the fact that staff primarily targeted residents with substantial functional impairments. Over four months, residents who received restorative care improved significantly on several functional outcome indicators, while the comparison sample declined in several areas of functioning. Interviews with facility directors and participating staff provided direction for modifying the RCET and insight regarding opportunities and challenges when implementing restorative care activities in nursing homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Shanti
- Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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Murphy MJ, Grace GM, Tartaglia MC, Orange JB, Chen X, Rowe A, Findlater K, Kozak RI, Freedman M, Strong MJ, Lee TY. Cerebral haemodynamic changes accompanying cognitive impairment in primary lateral sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 9:359-68. [DOI: 10.1080/17482960802411740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Tartaglia MC, Rowe A, Findlater K, Orange JB, Grace G, Strong MJ. Differentiation Between Primary Lateral Sclerosis and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 64:232-6. [PMID: 17296839 DOI: 10.1001/archneur.64.2.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Motor neuron diseases can affect the upper motor neuron and/or the lower motor neuron. Both amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and primary lateral sclerosis (PLS) are motor neuron diseases, and there is much debate as to whether these are 2 separate disorders or simply 2 points on a continuum. OBJECTIVE To determine which clinical features at onset and during follow-up could help differentiate between PLS and ALS. DESIGN Retrospective study comparing patients with a diagnosis of PLS or ALS for differences in symptoms or signs at disease onset and during follow-up. SETTING Tertiary referral center. Patients Six hundred sixty-one patients with ALS and 43 patients with PLS were included in the study. RESULTS At presentation, stiffness was the only symptom that was significantly different between patients with PLS and patients with ALS (observed in 47% and 4% of patients, respectively; P<.001). During follow-up, limb wasting was rare in patients with PLS (2%, compared with 100% in patients with ALS; P<.001). Disease duration was significantly longer in patients with PLS compared with patients with ALS (mean +/- SD, 11.2 +/- 6.1 vs 3.8 +/- 4.2 years, respectively; P<.001). During the 16 years of follow-up, the mortality rate was significantly lower in patients with PLS compared with patients with ALS (only 33% vs 89%, respectively; P<.001). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that a patient presenting with spasticity who does not develop wasting within 3 years most likely has PLS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Carmela Tartaglia
- Clinical Neurological Sciences, London Health Sciences Centre, University of Western Ontario, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
This article addresses the importance of language, speech, and communication accommodations between the physician and the patient with dementia. Following a brief summary of common profiles of speech, language, and communication in several different types of dementia, the authors discuss key elements based on a comprehensive model of communication enhancement for individuals with dementia. The primary emphasis of this article is that physicians must select individually tailored communication strategies drawn from a sound knowledge of patients' skills. More importantly, the article stresses that communication is not just the exchange of information, but communication includes components that help establish mutual respect and maintain patients' self-identity and autonomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kertesz
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, St. Joseph's Health Centre, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Orange
- School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize prospectively the cognitive profile in ALS. METHODS Clinically definite ALS patients (11 men, 2 women), age 39.9 to 74.0 years (mean age, 54.2 +/- 9.6 years; mean disease duration, 21.1 +/- 10.5 months) underwent neuropsychologic, language, and speech testing followed by MR 1H spectroscopy (4 T). Five spousal control subjects completed an identical protocol. Eight ALS patients participated in follow-up studies at a 6-month interval. RESULTS Relative to control subjects, ALS patients showed mild impairment in word generation, recognition memory (faces), and motor-free visual perception. Bulbar-onset patients showed greater impairment in a number of measures (working memory, problem solving/cognitive flexibility, visual perception, and recognition memory for words and faces), and cognitive impairment appeared more progressive over time. ALS patients demonstrated anomia on a confrontation naming test, with no significant problems following commands or repeating. Speech motor performance scores and intelligibility scores were not significantly different. No significant declines in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume, or peak expiratory flow rates were observed. Although normal at initial testing (T1), MR 1H spectroscopy demonstrated a reduction of the N-acetylaspartate/creatine (NAA/Cr) ratio in the nondominant precentral motor strip across the two testing intervals. In contrast, the NAA/Cr ratio obtained from the anterior cingulate gyrus at T1 was already reduced in bulbar-onset patients (p < 0.001), whereas no deficits were observed in limb-onset individuals in the same region. CONCLUSIONS Bulbar-onset ALS patients with cognitive impairments and neuronal loss in the anterior cingulate gyrus subsequently developed more profound neuropsychological dysfunction whereas both language and speech capabilities remained relatively preserved. Of note, the absence of bulbar signs did not predict an absence of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Strong
- Department of Clincial Neurological Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Abstract
Conversational repair was examined in videotaped samples of spontaneous mealtime talk of 6 normal elderly adults, 5 subjects with early stage dementia of the Alzheimer's type (EDAT) and 5 subjects with middle stage DAT (MDAT) with a family member who acted as a conversational partner. The overall percentage of utterances involved in communication breakdown and repair and the specific proportions of utterances related to conversation problems, signals identifying problems, and repairs, were evaluated. Using the normal dyads as a control group, results showed the differential effects of DAT onset and progression on the conversational repair behavior of both subjects with DAT and their conversational partner. The percentage of conversation involved in repair was significantly higher for MDAT versus control and EDAT dyads. Despite the increase of conversational troubles with DAT onset and progression, the difficulties were repaired successfully the majority of the time. Subjects with EDAT produced more requests for repair than did their conversational partners. However, conversational partners of EDAT subjects used more elaboration repairs than did EDAT subjects. The opposite pattern was observed in the MDAT group where subjects with MDAT created and repaired more conversational problems than did their conversational partner. MDAT subjects produced more discourse trouble sources than did EDAT subjects. It was also observed that MDAT subjects and conversational partners frequently used nonspecific terms to signal misunderstandings. The findings have important implications for developing family caregiver communication enhancement strategies that are specific to the clinical stage of DAT.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Orange
- Department of Communicative Disorders, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, adult-onset neurodegenerative disorder manifesting as a relentless loss of motor capabilities and, ultimately, death. Traditionally thought to affect solely the lower motor neurons and corticospinal tracts, recent studies suggest that the pathogenic process of ALS is more extensive, involving dysfunction of cortical grey and white matter with clinical correlates of impairment in cognition and language. The impact of speech and motor deficits are discussed in relation to the issues of assessment of cognition and language. Three case studies are presented for illustrative purposes. Finally, direction for future research to investigate cognitive dysfunction in ALS are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Strong
- Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Abstract
Good communication is an essential component of optimal delivery of health care and health promotion efforts. In this article, we address the communication predicament faced by older adults when their opportunities for optimal care are limited by inappropriate communication with formal care providers. We then introduce the Communication Enhancement Model which promotes health in old age by stressing recognition of individualized cues, modification of communication to suit individual needs and situations, appropriate assessment of the health/social problems, and empowerment of both elders and providers. Applications of the Communication Enhancement Model are discussed for two high-risk groups (elders from ethnocultural communities and elders with dementia) to show how it can function as a guide for the development and evaluation of educational interventions with health and social professionals working with elders.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Ryan
- Office of Gerontological Studies, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
According to Communication Accommodation Theory, overaccommodation in intergenerational communication with elders is frequently based on stereotyped expectations of frailty and dependence. This study examined the role of nonverbal behaviors in such overaccommodation. Adult volunteers (N = 120; mean age = 29 years) read either a patronizing or neutral version of one of three conversations between a nursing home resident and a nurse. As in our earlier study, the nurse's use of the patronizing conversational style was rated as less respectful, less nurturant, and more frustrating for the resident than the neutral style. The main analyses indicated that negative nonverbal behaviors were rated as significantly more likely to occur with the patronizing style while positive nonverbal behaviors were rated as significantly less likely. The negative evaluative impact of patronizing style was especially apparent for instrumental task situations with high compliance demands. The effects for conversational style were essentially replicated for a smaller sample (N = 50) of formal care providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- E B Ryan
- McMaster University, Ontario, Canada
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Ganesan R, Standish T, Molloy DW, Darzins P, Orange JB. New treatments for dementia. Myth, magic, and science. Can Fam Physician 1994; 40:1149-57. [PMID: 8019192 PMCID: PMC2380209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Dementia could affect 778,000 Canadians by the year 2031. While current treatment is mainly supportive, a race to find new treatments for this dreaded disease takes varied approaches and currently accounts for 10% of drug company resources. Tacrine is the first drug licensed by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in Alzheimer's disease. New treatments raise several ethical issues and involve society's attitude toward death and dying.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ganesan
- McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont
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Orange JB, Molloy DW, Lever JA, Darzins P, Ganesan CR. Alzheimer's disease. Physician-patient communication. Can Fam Physician 1994; 40:1160-8. [PMID: 8019193 PMCID: PMC2380218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The number of cognitively impaired elderly in Canada has increased greatly during the past two decades; nearly all have Alzheimer's disease (AD). The memory problems and changes in language and communication of these patients place tremendous strain on physicians who are searching for a differential diagnosis and are trying to communicate with them. Reviewing the salient language and communication features of AD patients leads to strategies for improving effective physician-patient communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Orange
- Department of Communicative Disorders, University of Western Ontario, London
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Orange JB, McLaughlin RS, Ryan EB. Planned walking and communication in SDAT. J Am Geriatr Soc 1992; 40:296. [PMID: 1599549 DOI: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.1992.tb02086.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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