scholarly journals Being There: Exploring Virtual Symphonic Experience as a Salutogenic Design Intervention for Older Adults

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Meara H. Faw ◽  
Taylor Buley ◽  
Laura Healey Malinin
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Spousal Caregivers ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Community Partners ◽  
Head Mounted Display ◽  
Video Recordings ◽  
Qualitative Thematic Analysis ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Being There ◽  
Virtual Experiences

This co-design study examined salutogenic potential of mobile virtual reality (VR) experiences as an alternative to participation in a community-based symphonic engagement program (B Sharp), previously found to benefit people with dementia (PWD) and their informal caregivers. Six focus groups were conducted with sixteen adults aged 76–90; three participants had dementia, and two were informal spousal caregivers. No participants had prior VR experience. The study assessed the feasibility of replicating the community-based-arts program in VR, with the goal of enhancing its salutogenic qualities (e.g., positive distraction, engagement, and social connection). Video-recordings of participants while using a mobile head-mounted display (HMD) were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis to compare perceptions of different virtual experiences, including replication or enhancement of B Sharp and a campus tour. Findings suggest participants had positive perceptions of enhanced VR experiences with no adverse effects, although PWD were less enthusiastic and HMD usability was complicated by eyewear use and comfort with technology. Participants reacted most favorably to the enhanced symphonic experience, where they were “virtually” onstage during the performance, suggesting unique experiences beyond what is possible in the real world have the greatest potential for deep immersion for older adults. Results suggest VR has strong potential to replicate and enhance salutogenic qualities of community-based programming by enabling greater access to experiences for older adults and by increasing enjoyment and engagement through experiences not otherwise feasible. Furthermore, this study illuminates advantages of a user-centered, co-design approach when developing VR experiences with community partners and older adults.

scholarly journals Interventions to Reduce Stigma of Dementia: First Insights From a Rural Community-Based Participatory Study

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 879-879
Author(s):  
Juanita Bacsu ◽  
Shanthi Johnson ◽  
Megan O’Connell ◽  
Marc Viger
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Rural Communities ◽  
Support Groups ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Contributing Factors ◽  
Community Based ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Related Stigma ◽  
Asking Questions

Abstract Age is the greatest risk factor for dementia, and the number of rural older adults is rising. Although dementia-related stigma is widely documented, few studies focus on ways to reduce stigma, especially within rural communities. This late breaker presentation aims to: 1) explore the contributing factors of dementia-related stigma in rural communities; and 2) identify interventions to reduce stigma of dementia in rural communities. Drawing on a community-based participatory approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 18 older adults, and a focus group with 7 community leaders in rural Saskatchewan, Canada. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and patterns within the data. Contributing factors of dementia-related stigma ranged from fear to lack of dementia knowledge. Several anti-stigma interventions were identified including: forming support groups; hosting educational workshops; inviting guest speakers with dementia; talking openly about dementia; learning more about dementia; asking questions; sharing your lived-experiences; being inclusive; developing inter-generational programs; and avoiding assumptions and hurtful jokes. As the rural population ages, there is a growing need for interventions, programs, and policies to address stigma of dementia. Engaging in rural partnerships and collaborative research is essential to developing community-informed strategies to reduce dementia-related stigma and improve the quality of life for people with dementia.

scholarly journals DEVELOPING INTEREST IN GEROPSYCHOLOGY THROUGH INTERGENERATIONAL EXPERIENCE

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S599-S600
Author(s):  
Katherine King ◽  
Erlene Rosowsky ◽  
Michelle Jolson
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Social Media ◽  
Panel Discussion ◽  
Doctoral Program ◽  
Personal Satisfaction ◽  
Community Partners ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Student Volunteer ◽  
Recent Graduates ◽  
Volunteer Group

Abstract In order to develop interest in geropsychology, it is beneficial for students to have direct experiences with older adults. This presentation reports on the development of an innovative student volunteer group within a doctoral program in clinical psychology. In this group, students engage directly with older adults in the community. With the help of geropsychology faculty, students have developed and led intergenerational activities such as a panel discussion about dating, reminiscence using music, fraud recognition, and social media training. The group consists of 32 current students, along with 7 recent graduates. Community partners have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback. Students have reported benefits including personal satisfaction from intergenerational contact, learning and pleasure from hearing older adults’ stories, and feeling appreciated. Reported challenges include communication issues and feeling unsure how to relate to people with dementia. Students also describe negative assumptions about aging that have changed as a result of their participation.

scholarly journals Home and Community Based Services for People With Dementia

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 668-669
Author(s):  
Howard Degenholtz ◽  
Raymond Van Cleve
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Nursing Home ◽  
Home Care ◽  
Physical Disability ◽  
Personal Care ◽  
Community Based ◽  
The Past ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Similar Information ◽  
Community Based Services

Abstract Home and Community Based Services has grown as an alternative to nursing homes over the past 30 years. While there are extensive data on nursing home staffing, there is a dearth of similar information about Medicaid financed home care. We use data from 2014-2016 Pennsylvania Medicaid to examine personal care for elderly with and without dementia across the range of physical disability. One challenge is that even though physical function can be measured in terms of discrete tasks (i.e., limitation in bathing, dressing, toileting), analysis of the amount of care people receive has to take into account the combination of dementia and combinations of ADL limitations. We found that older adults with dementia receive one hour more of personal care per day at the lowest level of disability and 1.5 hours at the highest level. The increased need for caregiving hours should be incorporated into policies that guide HCBS programs.

scholarly journals From Surviving to Excelling: Adaptation of Gerontology Service Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 739-739
Author(s):  
Donna Jensen ◽  
Theresa Abah ◽  
Carol Sewell ◽  
Terrence Ranjo
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Service Learning ◽  
Community Engagement ◽  
Student Learning ◽  
Local Community ◽  
Learning Experiences ◽  
Learning Opportunities ◽  
Community Safety ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Community Partners

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.

Effects of a resistance training community programme in older adults

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-16
Author(s):  
Majid Mufaqam Syed-Abdul ◽  
Chrissa L. McClellan ◽  
Elizabeth J. Parks ◽  
Stephen D. Ball
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Body Mass Index ◽  
Resistance Training ◽  
Muscle Mass ◽  
Body Mass ◽  
Fat Mass ◽  
Training Programme ◽  
Haemoglobin A1c ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Resistance Training Programme

Abstract Ageing is associated with reduced muscle mass, strength, flexibility and balance, resulting in a poor quality of life (QOL). Past studies have occurred in highly controlled laboratory settings which provide strong support to determine whether similar gains can be made in community programmes. Twenty participants were enrolled in an eight-week community-based resistance training programme (mean age = 61.3 (standard error (SE) = 0.9) years); Body Mass Index = 32.0 (SE = 1.3) kg/m2). All participants completed surveys to assess outcomes associated with QOL. Given the relationship between muscle function and nerve health, nerve conduction studies (NCS) were also conducted in a separate group of participants (mean age = 64.9 (SE = 2.0) years; Body Mass Index = 32.6 (SE = 1.9) kg/m2). This community-based training programme significantly improved QOL measures in older adults (p < 0.001). Although weight loss was not the primary outcome of the study, participants reduced their body weights (p < 0.001), by primarily reducing fat mass (p = 0.007) while maintaining muscle mass. Significant improvements were observed in muscle strength (2.2%), flexibility and balance (3.2–464.2%, p ⩽ 0.05 for all). Improvements were also observed in plasma glucose (p = 0.05), haemoglobin A1C (p = 0.06) and aldolase enzyme levels (p < 0.001). Scores for surveys on memory and sleep improved (p < 0.05). Improved QOL was associated with increased lean mass (r = −0.714, p = 0.002), decreased fat mass (r = −0.702, p = 0.003) and improved flexibility and balance (r = −0.627, p = 0.008). An eight-week, community-based resistance training programme significantly improved QOL in older adults. Influence on the lipid profile and NCS still needs further investigation.

scholarly journals Health Promotion Behavior among Older Korean Family Caregivers of People with Dementia

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (8) ◽  
pp. 4123
Author(s):  
Aram Cho ◽  
Chiyoung Cha
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Health Promotion ◽  
Univariate Analysis ◽  
Family Members ◽  
Capital City ◽  
Care Plan ◽  
Term Care ◽  
Health Promotion Behaviors ◽  
People With Dementia ◽  
Health Promotion Behavior

People adopt health promotion behaviors to promote their health as they interact within the environment. The purpose of this study was to examine factors influencing health promotion behaviors among older adults caring for family members with dementia. For this cross-sectional study, data from 135 older adults who were the main caregivers were collected at an outpatient clinic at a university hospital in the capital city of South Korea between September and October in 2020. Sociodemographic characteristics, caregiver-related characteristics, dementia knowledge, fear of dementia, and health promotion behaviors were measured. Univariate analysis revealed that the level of health promotion behaviors differed by age, sex, educational level, monthly income, relationship with the family member with dementia, and cohabitation with family members with dementia. In the multivariate analysis, a hierarchical multiple regression model explained 33.9% of the variance. Sex, duration of caregiving, use of long-term care service, and fear of dementia predicted health promotion behavior. A strategic tailored care plan for target population is needed to improve the health promotion behavior of older adults caring for family members with dementia.

scholarly journals Supporting Older Adults and Caregivers Through Integrative Service Learning During COVID

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 958-958
Author(s):  
Keith Chan ◽  
Sarah LaFave ◽  
Maggie Ratnayake ◽  
Christina Marsack-Topolewski ◽  
Jillian Graves ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Service Learning ◽  
Community Resources ◽  
Learning Models ◽  
Process Data ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Age In Place ◽  
Home Based ◽  
Hands On ◽  
Hands On Learning

Abstract There is a growing population of older adults who are living longer and acquiring chronic illness and disabilities, making it difficult for them to complete everyday activities and age in place. More than 2 million of these older adults are homebound and 5 million need help leaving their homes. They experience social isolation, food insecurity, and lack of connection to community resources which has intensified since the pandemic. Integrative service learning models can provide home-based support to older adults while offering valuable, hands-on learning experiences for students. This study examined findings for a community-based program which trained university students to provide practical home-based support for older adults and their caregivers. Data was collected for 109 older adults who were connected with student trainees. Students provided services with groceries, companionship, and help accessing needed services. Findings from t-test results using the UCLA Loneliness Scale indicated that older adults reported less loneliness after engagement with students (mean difference = 6.15, t = 3.14, df = 82, p &lt; 0.01). Qualitative process data suggested that older adults benefited from services and a connection to their assigned students prior to and during the pandemic. Student trainees reported that the experience enriched their learning and reaffirmed their commitment to working with older adults. Community-based service learning can address home-based needs of older adults and their caregivers and enhance learning opportunities for students. Policies and practice can support a pipeline of geriatric health professionals through innovative service learning models to benefit older adults, caregivers and students.

scholarly journals Long-term participation in community group exercise improves lower extremity muscle strength and delays age-related declines in walking speed and physical function in older adults

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Chisato Hayashi ◽  
Soshiro Ogata ◽  
Tadashi Okano ◽  
Hiromitsu Toyoda ◽  
Sonoe Mashino
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Muscle Strength ◽  
Physical Exercise ◽  
Lower Extremity ◽  
Physical Function ◽  
Community Dwelling ◽  
Group Exercise ◽  
Community Based ◽  
Lower Extremity Muscle

Abstract Background The effects of group exercise on the physical function of community-dwelling older adults remain unclear. The changes in lower extremity muscle strength, timed up and go (TUG) time, and the motor fitness scale (MFS), over time, among older adults who expressed a willingness to participate in community-based physical exercise groups, were determined using multilevel modelling. Methods We analyzed data of 2407 older adults between April 2010 and December 2019 from the registry of physical tests of community-based physical exercise groups. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to assess the effect of physical exercise on lower extremity muscle strength, TUG time, and MFS scores. The durations of the exercises were evaluated by frequency of physical test’s participate. Results A deterioration in lower extremity muscle strength was found in the short-term participant group only. However, in the mid-term and long-term participation groups, lower extremity muscle strength showed a trend of improvement. The TUG time and the MFS score were negatively correlated with increasing age in both groups divided by the duration of participation. However, there was a slower rate of deterioration in the long-term participation group. Discussion Lower extremity muscle strength, TUG time, and MFS scores decline with increasing age and there were differences in the slope of deterioration that depended on the duration of participation in community-based group exercise. Conclusion Participation in group exercise improved lower extremity muscle strength, TUG time, and MFS scores of older adults living in a community. The positive effects of group exercise were dependent on long-term participation.

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