scholarly journals A Pandemic Paradox: Innovations in Psychological Resiliency and Suicide Prevention in Older Adults

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 417-418
Author(s):  
Marnin Heisel
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Suicide Prevention ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Social Advocacy ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Research Education ◽  
Health And Well Being

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has had a substantial negative impact on the health and well-being of older adults, a demographic with the highest proportion of fatalities in North America. Long-term care and retirement homes have been especially hard hit. Sheltering in place can increase social isolation among older adults and contribute to feelings of stigmatization, burden, stress, anxiety, anger, and despair. As older adults also account for high rates of suicide, fear of infection, reduced access to professional and social supports, and growing apathy, hopelessness, and social isolation could amplify suicide risk (see Zortea et al., 2020). The speaker will discuss how his program of research on psychological resiliency and suicide prevention in older adults has pivoted online over the past year, and how the pandemic has paradoxically inspired innovative approaches to research, education, clinical practice, and social advocacy for older adults that will likely continue well beyond the present time.

Collaborative Remembering and Reminiscence in Older Adults

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda A. Henkel ◽  
Alison Kris
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Nursing Facilities ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Healthy Community ◽  
Community Dwelling Older Adults ◽  
Health And Well Being ◽  
Care Nursing

This chapter explores the ways in which remembering alone or with others shapes what older adults remember and what they forget, and how such memory activities impact their mental health and well-being. Two related but largely separate bodies of research on older adults are examined, one using a primarily laboratory approach to understand how and when collaborative remembering helps or hinders memory, and the other using descriptive and correlational studies about the functions and values of reminiscing and sharing one’s personal memories with other people. We examine the use and value of reminiscence in healthy community-dwelling older adults, as well as in older adults with some degree of cognitive impairment living in long-term care nursing facilities.

scholarly journals EVALUATION OF ART ON THE BRAIN, A HEALTH APP FOR OLDER ADULTS, IN LONG-TERM CARE

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S808-S808
Author(s):  
Elizabeth P Howard ◽  
Tammy Retalic ◽  
Jessica Rogan
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Personal Relationships ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Health And Well Being

Abstract ArtOn the Brain is a mobile application that incorporates art history education, play and socialization for older adults. This pilot project examined its health and social impact among long term care residents. A convenience sample of 48 residents, 60+ years, with borderline intact to moderate cognitive impairment were recruited. Residents with mild or better cognitive status used the app individually on a tablet while the remaining participated in therapist-led group sessions. One-hour intervention occurred twice weekly. Primary outcomes, health and well-being, were measured with 5Q-5D-5L and Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being tools at baseline and after 6 weeks. Secondary outcomes were mood, cognition, function and overall satisfaction with activity options and personal relationships. Pre-post paired t-test analyses of data from EQ-5D-5L and Warwick tools did not show a significant difference. There were no notable declines with cognitive performance, functional ability and depression post-intervention. Four activity options and three personal relationship items had statistically significant improvements post-intervention. Activity options addressed engagement in enjoyable activities on weekends and evenings, and opportunity to, spend time with other like-minded residents and explore new skills, interests. Personal relationships items included engagement in activities helpful to others and having people to do things with. ArtOn the Brain is a novel application suitable for long term care residents. While 6 week intervention did not show improvement in overall health and well-being, there were significant improvements with residents’ reported engagement in activity options and improvement of personal relationships. Longitudinal evaluations are needed to examine changes in health status and well-being.

scholarly journals Digital Technologies To Enhance Social Connectedness in Long-Term Care Facilities During COVID-19: A Review

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 942-943
Author(s):  
Shannon Freeman ◽  
Aderonke Abgoji ◽  
Alanna Koopmans ◽  
Christopher Ross
Keyword(s):  
Social Isolation ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Social Connectedness ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Care Facility ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Sufficient Information ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Care Facilities

Abstract A consequence of the strict visitor restrictions implemented by many Long-term Care Facilities (LTCFs), during the COVID-19 pandemic, was the exacerbation of loneliness and social isolation felt by older adult residents. While there had been a shift by some persons to utilize digital solutions to mitigate the effects of the imposed social isolation, many facilities did not have sufficient information regarding available solutions to implement institutional strategies to support social connectedness through digital solutions. To support our partners in evidence-based policy-making we conducted a scoping review to identify existing virtual technology solutions, apps, and platforms feasible to promote social connectedness among persons residing in a long-term care facility context during times of lockdown such as experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initial identification of relevant literature involved a combination of keywords and subject headings searches within 5 databases (PubMed, CINAHL EBSCO, PsychINFO EBSCO, Embase OVIDSP, and Web of Science ISI). DistillerSR was used to screen, chart and summarize the data. There is growth in the availability of technologies focused on promoting health and well-being in later life for persons in long-term care facilities however a gap remains in widespread uptake. We will describe the breadth of technologies identified in this review and discuss how they vary in utility in smaller scale facilities common in rural areas. Of the technologies that can be used to mitigate the impacts of social isolation felt by long-term care residents, many “solutions” depend on stable highspeed internet, which remains a challenge in rural and northern areas.

scholarly journals THE IMPACT OF A PARO INTERVENTION ON DEPRESSION AND WELL-BEING IN OLDER ADULTS WITH DEPRESSION

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S341-S341
Author(s):  
Shu-Chuan Chen ◽  
Wendy Moyle ◽  
Cindy Jones
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Older People ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Well Being ◽  
World Health ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Care Facilities

Abstract Aim: This study aimed to explore the effect of a social robot Paro intervention on depression and well-being in older adults with depression living in long-term care facilities in Taiwan. Methods: This study was adopted a single group and quasi-experimental with repeated measures design. Each participant participated in two stages: observation and Paro intervention stages. Stage 1 was an 8-week observation stage in long-term care facilities where the purpose was to observe the normal mood, behaviour and activities of older adults with depression. In stage 2, each participant was given a Paro by the researcher to keep for 24 hours for 7 days in for 8 weeks. Outcome measurements were obtained 4 times: a week before the intervention (T1), immediately the end of 8-week observation (T2), mid-point of Paro intervention (T3), and immediately the end of 8-week Paro intervention (T4). Instruments included the Geriatric Depression Scale, the UCLA Loneliness Scale version 3, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire-OLD. Results: There were 20 participants completed the study. The mean age of participants was 81.1years (SD = 8.2). After 8-week Paro intervention, statistically significant differences in changes were found on depression, loneliness, and quality of life from pre-intervention to post-intervention. Conclusion: This study was found that Paro intervention has beneficial effects on depression and mental well-being for older people with depression in long-term care facilities. Paro Intervention might be a suitable psychosocial intervention for older people with depression and should be considered as a useful tool in clinical practice.

scholarly journals Places of living and places of dying: the case for preventing suicide in residential long-term care

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-16
Author(s):  
Briony Jain ◽  
Viktoryia Kalesnikava ◽  
Joseph E. Ibrahim ◽  
Briana Mezuk
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Suicide Prevention ◽  
Residential Care ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Public Health Problem ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Term Care ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Residential Long Term Care

Abstract This commentary addresses the increasing public health problem of suicide in later life and presents the case for preventing suicide in residential long-term care settings. We do so by examining this issue from the perspective of three levels of stakeholders – societal, organisational and individual – considering the relevant context, barriers and implications of each. We begin by discussing contemporary societal perspectives of ageing; the potential impact of ageism on prevention of late-life suicide; and the roles of gender and masculinity. This is followed by a historical analysis of the origin of residential long-term care; current organisational challenges; and person-centred care as a suicide prevention strategy. Finally, we consider suicide in long-term care from the perspective of individuals, including the experience of older adults living in residential care settings; the impact of suicide on residential care health professionals and other staff; and the impact of suicide bereavement on family, friends and other residents. We conclude with recommendations for policy reform and future research. This commentary aims to confront the often unspoken bias associated with preventing suicide among older adults, particularly those living with complex medical conditions, and invoke an open dialogue about suicide prevention in this population and setting.

scholarly journals Social Distancing vs Social Interaction for Older Adults at Long-Term Care Facilities in the Midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Rapid Review and Synthesis of Action Plans

2021 ◽  
Vol 58 ◽  
pp. 004695802110442
Author(s):  
Farhana Ferdous
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Interaction ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Rapid Review ◽  
Action Plans ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Social Distancing ◽  
Care Facilities

The present study aimed to systematically analyze the impact of COVID-19-related social distancing requirements on older adults living in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) and to synthesize the literature into thematic action plans to minimize the adverse effects of social isolation. The search included articles published between December 2019 and August 2020 across four databases. The inclusion criteria were used to screen for studies that reported on social isolation and loneliness due to the COVID-19 pandemic in older adults living in LTCFs. This rapid review identified 29 relevant studies and synthesized them into four thematic action plans: technological advancement, remote communication, therapeutic care/stress management, and preventive measures. These thematic action plans and cost-effective strategies can be immediately adopted and used as a resource for all LTCF administrators, healthcare design professionals, and researchers in battling current COVID-19-related issues, and improving social interaction in older adults living in care facilities.

scholarly journals Benefit-finding buffers the effects of quarantine on older adults’ mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 722-722
Author(s):  
Fan Zhang ◽  
Sheung-Tak Cheng
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Isolation ◽  
Online Survey ◽  
Protective Factor ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Benefit Finding ◽  
Anxiety Depression ◽  
Moderating Role

Abstract Objective Older adults’ health and well-being may suffer due to prolonged social isolation leading to loneliness and increased stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study aimed to address the role of benefit-finding, defined as the capacity to derive meaning and positive aspects from stressful situations, in older adults’ adaptation to the effects of quarantine. Methods 421 participants aged 50 or above in China participated in an online survey to study the effects of quarantine on loneliness, stress, anxiety, depression and life satisfaction, and the moderating role of benefit-finding. Results The results showed that quarantine was basically unrelated to any outcome. Further analysis showed, however, that the effect of quarantine varied by levels of benefit-finding. Only people with lower benefit-finding reported a higher level of loneliness, perceived stress, anxiety and depression, but no relationships were found at higher benefit-finding. Conclusions The findings extended our understanding of the role of benefit-finding in buffering the negative impact of adversity on older people. By mitigating the effects of prolonged social isolation, benefit-finding served as a protective factor in older people’s adaptation to the sequelae of this pandemic.

scholarly journals Evidence-Based Approaches to Suicide in Older Adults—Zero Suicide

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 625-625
Author(s):  
Luming Li
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Suicide Prevention ◽  
Implementation Strategies ◽  
Essential Elements ◽  
Clinical Settings ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Future Directions ◽  
Healthcare Settings

Abstract This individual symposium abstract will focus on evidence-based approaches to suicide in older adults, with particular focus on the Zero Suicide Model. Zero Suicide Model is a framework that applies seven essential elements of suicide care (Lead, Train, Identify, Engage, Treat, Transition, Improve). The model provides a systematic approach for quality improvement for suicide prevention and offers implementation strategies for “real-world” clinical settings using the Assess, Intervene, and Monitor for Suicide Prevention (AIM-SP) program for suicide-safer care. The authors will describe implementation of Zero Suicide in general healthcare settings that care for older adults, including health systems and outpatient clinics. The authors will also describe the value of Zero Suicide other settings such as long-term care centers, where older adults are cared for. In addition, the authors will describe future directions for research in the Zero Suicide Model and additional opportunities in public policy for suicide prevention.

scholarly journals HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF OLDER ADULTS IN LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES: LESSONS FROM LONGITUDINAL STUDIES.

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S242-S242
Author(s):  
Robert O Barker ◽  
Andrew Kingston ◽  
Fiona Matthews ◽  
Barbara Hanratty
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Longitudinal Studies ◽  
Long Term Care ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Complex Needs ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Care Facilities

Abstract Older adults in long-term care facilities (LTCF) have complex needs for health care and support. There is a perception that residents’ needs are increasing over time, but little research evidence to back this up. In this study we brought together data on 1640 residents in LTCFs from three longitudinal studies, and conducted repeated cross-sectional analyses across a 25 year period. We found that the prevalence of severe disability amongst residents has increased from 56% to 80% over a 20 year period, driven by increases in difficulties in bathing and dressing. The prevalence of multimorbidity also increased from 29% to 56% between 2006 and 2014. A growth in the number of people with dementia, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases contributed to this. We conclude that residents in LTCFs have become a selected subset of the population, characterised by increasing needs for support. This poses an important challenge for future care provision.

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