scholarly journals The Development of a Community-Based, Pharmacist-Provided Falls Prevention MTM Intervention for Older Adults: Relationship Building, Methods, and Rationale

2014 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
David A. Mott ◽  
Beth Martin ◽  
Robert Breslow ◽  
Barb Michaels ◽  
Jeff Kirchner ◽  
...  

The objectives of this article are to discuss the process of community engagement experienced to plan and implement a pilot study of a pharmacist-provided MTM intervention focused on reducing the use of medications associated with falling, and to present the research methods that emerged from the community engagement process to evaluate the feasibility, acceptance, and preliminary impact of the intervention. Key lessons learned from the community engagement process also are presented and discussed. The relationship building and planning process took twelve months. The RE-AIM framework broadly guided the planning process since an overarching goal for the community partners was developing a program that could be implemented and sustained in the future. The planning phase focused on identifying research questions that were of most interest to the community partners, the population to study, the capacity of partners to perform activities, and process evaluation. Much of the planning phase was accomplished with face-to-face meetings. After all study processes, study materials, and data collection tools were developed, a focus group of older adults who represented the likely targets of the MTM intervention provided feedback related to the concept and process of the intervention. Nine key lessons were identified from the community engagement process. One key to successful community engagement is partners taking the time to educate each other about experiences, processes, and successes and failures. Additionally, partners must actively listen to each other to better understand barriers and facilitators that likely will impact the planning and implementation processes. Successful community engagement will be important to develop both formative and summative evaluation processes that will help to produce valid evidence about the effectiveness of pharmacists in modifying drug therapy and preventing falls as well as to promote the adoption and implementation of the intervention in other communities.   Type: Original Research

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 102-102
Author(s):  
Alice Prendergast ◽  
Kristi Fuller

Abstract Efforts to include community voice in health policy and service planning are gaining recognition and support in the United States. Findings suggest community involvement can contribute to a better understanding of systems and factors that impact health, and, subsequently, more effective and sustainable policy and program design. Additionally, engagement can increase community buy-in, and community members can gain a greater awareness of services; increased confidence navigating systems; feelings of social connectedness; and capacity to advocate around issues through participation. Despite these findings, the extent to which community members are engaged in planning and decision-making varies considerably. Researchers from Georgia State University conducted a review of state plans on aging using the Person-Centered Outcomes Research Initiative (PCORI) Engagement Principles and the Health Research & Educational Trust’s Community and Patient Engagement Spectrum as frameworks to assess evidence of community engagement. The frameworks recognize engagement throughout the planning process, including design, data collection and interpretation, and dissemination. The review revealed that few planning processes described significant engagement, but rather met the minimal requirements established by federal policy. Federal guidance on community-informed planning practices is sparse, as are resources to support states in adopting these processes. To address this gap, the research team drew on the frameworks and other promising practices to design two community engagement projects, both in partnership with Georgia’s Division of Aging Services. Methods for participant engagement, data collection, interpretation and application of results, and lessons learned through both projects will be discussed, as well as potential implications.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S123-S124
Author(s):  
Thomas J Eagen ◽  
Ellen McGough ◽  
Tracy Mroz ◽  
Deborah Kartin ◽  
Anjum Hajat ◽  
...  

Abstract Older adults with a disability are at greater risk for falls and injury due to falling compared to those without a disability. Evidence-based falls prevention programs (EBFPPs) have been developed and disseminated broadly, however individuals with disabilities were excluded from original research on effectiveness. Using data from the National Falls Prevention Database from the National Council on Aging, we compared the reach and effectiveness of two EBFPPs, A Matter of Balance (MOB) or Stepping On, between those with and without a disability. Program reach was measured using attendance percentage. Program effectiveness was measured using change in fear of falling (FOF), fall-related activity restriction (FAR), and falls self-efficacy (FSE) post-program. A total of 12,667 participants were analyzed. Participants were, on average, 76 years old (M = 76.18, SD = 9.86), largely female (75%), well educated (80% some college or higher), and white (90%). Nearly half self-reported a disability (40%). Older adults with a disability were as likely to attend (M = 0.88, SD = 0.14) the program compared to those without a disability (M = 0.88, SD = 0.14, p =.30). Older adults with a disability reported greater FOF and FAR and lower FSE compared to participants without a disability at baseline. Significant improvements were made across effectiveness measures, irrespective of disability status. MOB and Stepping On are effective programs, well attended by older adults with and without disabilities, however older adults with a disability continued to report higher FOF and FAR, and lower FSE compared to those without a disability.


2011 ◽  
Vol 2011 ◽  
pp. 1-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Molly Oshun ◽  
Nicole M. Ardoin ◽  
Sharon Ryan

Our study examines a nontraditional engagement process employed by the City of Seattle during neighborhood plan updates. Adapting the trusted advocates model from the public health field, the city hired planning outreach liaisons (POLs) from 13 diverse community groups to solicit input from traditionally underrepresented residents. To explore the efficacy of this approach, we collected data through interviews with residents, neighborhood leaders, community development firm employees, university researchers, and municipal staff; a review of planning documents; observation at planning meetings. We found that the POLs effectively engaged underrepresented groups—including more than 1,200 stakeholders—particularly those characterized as self-organized, centralized or having strong social networks and were important in the advancement of democratic principles. Greater transparency by the city about process goals and constraints, along with strategies to address power issues, may have facilitated better communication and relationship building among the city, newly enfranchised residents, and the “usual suspects.”


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 369-369
Author(s):  
Carol Petrie ◽  
Christine Ferrone ◽  
Phillip Clark ◽  
Alexandra Morelli

Abstract Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Programs (GWEPs) are ideally suited to develop and implement educational programs to transform the geriatric care system. They link academic programs, clinical partners, and community-based organizations to bridge care system gaps to improve the health and social care of older adults. Such a collaboration is especially important in falls prevention, where primary care assessments generate referrals to community programs that enroll older adults to reduce their risk of falling. However, exporting an evidence-based model developed in one context for implementation in another is not without its perils and pitfalls. This paper explores the challenges of applying a model developed elsewhere to the Rhode Island context, including the need to understand how structural differences in academic, primary care, and community-based systems require flexibility, innovation, and persistence in overcoming the networking challenges in these different settings. Recommendations for implementing program models in a variety of settings are explored.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 402-402
Author(s):  
Shannon Jarrott ◽  
Skye Leedahl ◽  
Donna Butts

Abstract Implementing intergenerational programming amidst the COVID-19 pandemic has required creativity, partnership, and dedication to the work. Most intergenerational programs involving in-person meetings or events are accompanied by guidelines to protect participant health and safety. Programming is routinely cancelled or postponed due to poor weather or contagious illness, particularly when a vulnerable population is involved. The needs for safety precautions and continued intergenerational contact were both amplified during the pandemic, leading many to modify or innovate ways to engage generations rather than eliminate contact for extended periods. Technology has afforded new approaches to engage young people and older people with each other; non-technological ways have also proven effective. This symposium will address strategies used to implement intergenerational programs during the pandemic. Authors will highlight lessons learned and strategies they expect to retain in the future. The first paper describes a pivot in nutrition programming designed for a shared site with preschool children and frail older adults. In paper two, authors discuss their partnership-based approach shifting to remote offerings of Cyber-Seniors programming. Paper three addresses how MentorUp Service-Learning expanded its reach by adaptations to virtual programming for older adults in retirement communities. The final paper presents evaluation data comparing arts programming delivered in-person pre-pandemic and again virtually during the pandemic. In each case, researchers and community partners learned techniques to maintain their programmatic foci. Some projects developed strategies they plan to maintain post-pandemic. Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United serves as the symposium discussant.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 475-475
Author(s):  
Max Zubatsky ◽  
John Morley ◽  
Marla Berg-Weger

Abstract In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Saint Louis University GWEP quickly pivoted service initiatives to online formats. Despite challenges of technology literacy and access, GWEP faculty, staff, and students creatively adapted in-person programming to online delivery and developed new virtually-delivered services. These service delivery adaptations provided opportunities for educating students, residents, faculty, community partners, and older adults and their caregivers to gain new knowledge and skills while continuing to participate in programming. This presentation will highlight innovations in the area of services to persons with dementia through Cognitive Stimulation Therapy, caregivers through education and support programs, older adults experiencing loneliness and social isolation through Circle of Friends, and older adults and caregivers through a virtual geriatric assessment clinic. We share highlights here of our efforts to pivot programming, access new funding streams, and, in some cases, create online delivery, including valuable lessons learned.


2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 739-739
Author(s):  
Donna Jensen ◽  
Theresa Abah ◽  
Carol Sewell ◽  
Terrence Ranjo

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted older adults, and the educational service-learning opportunities available to gerontology students. As an applied major, Sacramento State University’s Gerontology Department heavily depends on service-learning. The pandemic affected existing gerontology placements and their ability to host student learning. In addition, at the outset of the pandemic, Sacramento State University immediately terminated in-person service learning. The Gerontology Department prioritized student and community safety while still valuing the need for students to have meaningful and relevant community-based learning experiences. Gerontology faculty worked with community partners to shift these vital learning experiences. This poster presentation focuses on the creative ways the department engaged community partners to continue quality learning opportunities for students while assisting community partners with the unrelenting shifts in operations. Three innovative service-learning and community engagement practices will be addressed, including a) Partnering with the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) to create and provide the statewide Social Bridging Project for older adults throughout California; b) Expanding the relationship with Sacramento State’s Renaissance Society, a lifelong learning and community engagement program for older adults; and c) Partnering with a community-based Cardio-vascular Wellness Program to keep older adults active and engaged while remaining at home. The poster will review the pivot to virtual service learning and share how this shift enhanced student learning and community service. This will include expanding the use of technology and capitalizing on innovative methods to reach out and provide service to older adults, the local community, and the state of California.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 950-950
Author(s):  
Jamie Rincker ◽  
Jessica Wallis ◽  
Angela Fruik ◽  
Alyssa King ◽  
Kenlyn Young ◽  
...  

Abstract Recommendations for older adults to socially isolate during the COVID-19 pandemic will have lasting impacts on body weight and physical activity. Due to the pandemic, two in-person RCT weight-loss interventions in obese older adults with prediabetes, Veterans Achieving Weight Loss and Optimizing Resilience-Using Protein (VALOR-UP, n=12) and the Egg-Supplemented Pre-Diabetes Intervention Trial (EGGSPDITE, n=7), were converted to remote formats and weekly nutrition (EGGSPDITE and VALOR-UP) and exercise (VALOR-UP only) classes were delivered using synchronous videoconference technology (Webex); classes were accessed via tablet/desktop/laptop or smart phone. Steps taken to transition participants to remote formats included technology training, implementation of staff tech-support, and delivery of nutrition education, tablets, scales, and exercise bands. The time to successfully transition participants was 1 week for early adopters (n=10) and up to 4 weeks for those with significant technology barriers (n=9); their difficulties included internet access, camera and microphone access and use, and electronic submission of weight and food records. Even with these challenges, in the first 3 months of remote delivery, participant dropout rate was low (10.5%, n=2), attendance was high (87.6% nutrition class (n=19); 76.4% exercise class (VALOR-UP, n=12)), and weight loss was successful (>2.5% loss (n=13); >5% loss (n=8)), showing that lifestyle interventions can be successfully adapted for remote delivery. Remote interventions also have potential for use in non-pandemic times to reach underserved populations who often have high drop-out rates due to caretaker roles, transportation limitations, and work schedules. These barriers were significantly reduced using a virtual intervention platform.


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