scholarly journals Challenges Faced by Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment and Their Caregivers in a Care Home

2019 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 33
Author(s):  
Yaw Frimpong ◽  
Dai Baozhen ◽  
Bernard Sarpong
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Social Inclusion ◽  
Care Home ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Extreme Pressure ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Financial Difficulties ◽  
Long Time ◽  
Institutional Abuse

This study examined the challenges faced by older adults with cognitive impairment and their caregivers in Kumasi Cheshire Home (Ghana). In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 50 older adults with cognitive impairment and 9 professionals (caregivers). The findings of the study indicated that older adults in care homes are likely to face social inclusion difficulties, and institutional abuse in the form of being forced to eat or go to bed at a particular time, and medication difficulties since it takes quite a long time for the drugs to arrive in the care home. It also found out that the challenges professionals (caregivers) face include: financial difficulties, extreme pressure at work, among others. Lastly, it was again revealed that caregivers in the care home used spirituality as a coping strategy. Recommendations were made to assist in future research in the area and provide a strategic plan to improve the condition of adult healthcare for individuals with cognitive impairment

scholarly journals The complexity of caregiving for community-living older adults with multiple chronic conditions: A qualitative study

2020 ◽  
Vol 10 ◽  
pp. 2235042X2098119
Author(s):  
Jenny Ploeg ◽  
Anna Garnett ◽  
Kimberly D Fraser ◽  
Lisa Garland Baird ◽  
Sharon Kaasalainen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Chronic Conditions ◽  
Social Inclusion ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Community Support ◽  
Care Recipient ◽  
Community Living ◽  
Multiple Chronic Conditions ◽  
Structured Interviews

Background: Older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCC) rely heavily on caregivers for assistance with care. However, we know little about their psychosocial experiences and their needs for support in managing MCC. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of caregivers of older adults living in the community with MCC. Methods: This qualitative study was a secondary analysis of previously collected data from caregivers in Ontario and Alberta, Canada. Participants included caregivers of older adults (65 years and older) with three or more chronic conditions. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Interview transcripts were coded and analyzed using Thorne’s interpretive description approach. Results: Most of the 47 caregiver participants were female (76.6%), aged 65 years of age or older (61.7%), married (87.2%) and were spouses to the care recipient (68.1%). Caregivers’ experiences of caring for community-living older adults with MCC were complex and included: (a) dealing with the demands of caregiving; (b) prioritizing chronic conditions; (c) living with my own health limitations; (d) feeling socially isolated and constrained; (e) remaining committed to caring; and (f) reaping the rewards of caregiving. Conclusions: Healthcare providers can play key roles in supporting caregivers of older adults with MCC by providing education and support on managing MCC, actively engaging them in goal setting and care planning, and linking them to appropriate community health and social support services. Communities can create environments that support caregivers in areas such as social participation, social inclusion, and community support and health services.

Smart technologies challenges and issues in social inclusion – case of disabled youth in a developing country

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Bissane Harb ◽  
Dina Sidani
Keyword(s):  
Developing Countries ◽  
Millennium Development Goals ◽  
Social Inclusion ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Disabled People ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Development Goals ◽  
Smart Technologies

Purpose In light of the emphasis on “inclusion” in the sustainable development goals (SDGs), the notion of social inclusion encompasses the goal of granting opportunities for disabled people, integrate them and make them participate in the new environment. Referring to the capability theory, the purpose of this study is to examine the role of information and communication technology (ICT) in the social inclusion of disabled young people in Lebanon. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a qualitative approach based on a series of focused semi-structured interviews with 11 participants occupying key positions in aid associations for disabled people. Findings The findings suggest that smart technologies can enhance social inclusion through three key factors: the nature of impairment and other personal characteristics of disabled people, the resources available to them and the environmental aspects provided by government policies and society’s cultural practices. In the contemporary society characterized by an increasing role of ICTs, the findings of this research could contribute to lead the developing countries to a sustainable and inclusive world through social inclusion of their youth. Research limitations/implications This study has some limitations that should be mentioned. First, it was conducted only on a small sample size (with 11 interviewees). Further empirical research must be conducted on larger sample to build and elaborate on the findings. Second, the results are mainly based on the points of view of people working in aid associations for disabled people. In future research, semi-structured interviews can be carried out with the disabled people themselves or with members of their family to ask them about their personal experience with smart technologies and the impact of this on their social inclusion. It was also suggested that the future research should explore the challenges of inclusion for different categories of disabled people separately because they are not all facing the same issues and the same challenges. Furthermore, as this paper focuses on the role of smart technologies in the development of social inclusion of disabled people, future research could take place with other groups, for example, Palestinian and Syrian refugees, to identify whether these groups are experiencing similar challenges and barriers when trying to use smart technologies as a way to enhance their social inclusion. Practical implications Related to a larger and broader approach, social inclusion of disabled or marginalized people or refugees in developing countries could be a way to commit to a sustainable and inclusive world, in alignment with the eight goals of the Millennium Development Goals. Originality/value Related to a larger and broader approach, social inclusion of disabled or marginalized people or refugees in developing countries could be a way to commit to a sustainable and inclusive world, in alignment with the eight goals of the Millennium Development Goals.

scholarly journals Nonimmersive Brain Gaming for Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment: A Scoping Review

2019 ◽  
Vol 59 (6) ◽  
pp. e764-e781 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pallavi Sood ◽  
Sandra L Kletzel ◽  
Shilpa Krishnan ◽  
Hannes Devos ◽  
Ahmed Negm ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Scoping Review ◽  
Research Field ◽  
Cognitive Outcome ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Eligibility Criteria ◽  
Technological Advances ◽  
Design And Methods

Abstract Background Technological advances have allowed a variety of computerized cognitive training tools to be engineered in ways that are fun and entertaining yet challenging at a level that can maintain motivation and engagement. This revolution has created an opportunity for gerontological scientists to evaluate brain gaming approaches to improve cognitive and everyday function. The purpose of this scoping review is to provide a critical overview of the existing literature on nonimmersive, electronic brain gaming interventions in older adults with mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Research Design and Methods Systematic search was conducted using 7 electronic databases from inception through July 2017. A comprehensive 2-level eligibility process was used to identify studies for inclusion based on PRISMA guidelines. Results Seventeen studies met eligibility criteria. Majority of the studies were randomized controlled trials (n = 13) and incorporated an active control (n = 9). Intervention doses ranged from 4 to 24 weeks in duration with an average of 8.4 (±5.1 standard deviation [SD]) weeks. Session durations ranged from 30 to 100 min with an average of 54 (±25 SD) minutes. Nearly half of studies included a follow-up, ranging from 3 months to 5 years (n = 8). For most studies, brain gaming improved at least one cognitive outcome (n = 12); only one study reported improvement in activities of daily living. Discussion and Implications This scoping review conveys the breadth of an emerging research field, which will help guide future research to develop standards and recommendations for brain gaming interventions which are currently lacking.

scholarly journals CHANGES IN COGNITIVE FUNCTION AMONG SENIOR AMERICANS: TRENDS AND DIFFERENCES BY RACE

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S650-S650
Author(s):  
Keqing Zhang ◽  
Wei Zhang ◽  
Yanyan Wu
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Function ◽  
Hispanic Americans ◽  
Racial Diversity ◽  
Cultural Influences ◽  
The United States ◽  
Sociodemographic Factors ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Past Century

Abstract Improvements in health and increase in life expectancy have contributed to the increasing proportion of older population over the past century. It is estimated that by 2050, the number of older adults with cognitive impairments in the United States will increase by 2.5-4 fold, while age-specific rates remain constant. This paper uses data from 10 waves (1996-2014) of the Health and Retirement Study (N= 33213) to crystalize the trends in cognitive function changes and cognitive impairment rates in a nationally representative sample of older adults. OLS and logistic regressions are used to estimate the trends and determine the contribution of sociodemographic variables to decreasing trends in the prevalence of cognitive impairment over time. Results show that with the increase of age, the cognitive function of older adults decline in all races, after adjustment for age, gender, education, and other sociodemographic factors. Also, the annual decline rate of cognitive function is larger for African Americans and Hispanic Americans, while smaller for white and other races. A further investigation of the possibility of cognitive impairment reveals a different scenario: as individual ages, the Hispanic are the least likely to suffer from cognitive impairment, followed by the white, other and black. Improvements in educational level contribute to declines in cognitive impairment across all races, particular the Hispanic Americans. Race-specific findings suggest that future research need to take into account the racial diversity and possibly cultural influences when examining the cognitive functions of older adults.

scholarly journals Using a cognitive orthosis to support older adults during meal preparation: Clinicians’ perspective on COOK technology

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 ◽  
pp. 205566832090907 ◽  
Author(s):  
Amel Yaddaden ◽  
Mélanie Couture ◽  
Mireille Gagnon-Roy ◽  
Patricia Belchior ◽  
Maxime Lussier ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Cognitive Impairments ◽  
Occupational Therapists ◽  
Risky Behaviors ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Learning Abilities ◽  
Meal Preparation ◽  
Functional Profiles

Introduction Occupational therapists promote safety and autonomy of older adults with cognitive impairments. A technology, named COOK, offers support on a touch screen installed next to the stove to support task performance while correcting risky behaviors. We aimed to document (1) the functional profiles according the diagnosis (2) the types of interventions used to increase autonomy in the kitchen (3) the facilitators and obstacles to the implementation of COOK with this clientele. Methods Four focus groups were conducted with occupational therapists ( n = 24) and were transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis, including coding and matrix building. Results Occupational therapists identified different (1) functional profiles and (2) interventions for both diagnoses. The use of COOK (3) could be more beneficial in mild cognitive impairment, as many barriers occur for the use in Alzheimer’s disease. Some parameters, such as digital control of the stove and complex information management, need to be simplified. Discussion According to occupational therapists, this technology is particularly applicable to people with mild cognitive impairment, because this population has better learning abilities. Conclusion This study documented the specific needs of older adults with cognitive impairments as well as interventions used by occupational therapists. The perspectives of caregivers should be captured in future research.

scholarly journals Coping and Caregiver Burden and Depression Among Chinese Caregivers of Older Adults With Cognitive Impairment

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 245-245
Author(s):  
Xiang Gao ◽  
Kaipeng Wang
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Coping Strategies ◽  
Caregiver Burden ◽  
Care Recipient ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Intervention Package ◽  
Caregiver Depression ◽  
Positive Reframing ◽  
Chinese Caregivers

Abstract Coping strategies are important factors that influence caregivers’ mental health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between coping strategies and caregiver burden and depression among Chinese caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment. Data came from structured interviews with 300 primary family caregiver-care recipient dyads in Wuhan, China. We used OLS to examine the association between coping strategies and caregiver burden and depression. More positive reframing and acceptance were associated with lower caregiver burden, whereas more self-distraction was associated with higher caregiver burden. More positive reframing was associated with lower caregiver depression, whereas higher self-distraction and religion were associated with higher caregiver depression. Findings of this study suggest that a psychosocial intervention package that emphasizes on enhancing positive reframing skills and affirming acceptance may be effective in reducing caregiver burden and depression among Chinese caregivers of older adults with cognitive impairment.

scholarly journals Privacy Concerns Among Older Adults Using Voice Assistant Systems

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. 266-267
Author(s):  
Tiffany Driesse ◽  
Robert Roth ◽  
Xiaohui Liang ◽  
David Kotz ◽  
John Batsis ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Daily Activity ◽  
Age Groups ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Privacy Concerns ◽  
Assistant Systems ◽  
Software Platforms ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Ambulatory Practice

Abstract Voice Assistant Systems (VAS) are software platforms that complete various tasks using voice commands (e.g., Amazon Alexa), with increasing usage by older adults. It is unknown whether older adults have significant privacy concerns with VAS. 55 participants were evaluated from ambulatory practice sites for a study on VAS detection of early cognitive decline. The mean age was 73.3±5.6 years, 58% female, 93% white, and 53% had mild cognitive impairment. Privacy concerns were assessed via Likert-based surveys. Participants believed data was used with consent (71%) and stored properly (67%); however, 71% wanted new privacy regulations, 43% were comfortable with daily activity monitoring, and 85% thought the data needs to be highly protected. Qualitative themes included “listening-in”, “tracking”, and unwanted sharing of information. Findings suggest that older adults do not have significant privacy concerns for VAS use, but requested additional regulations. Future research can compare VAS privacy concerns between age groups.

scholarly journals Experiences of hearing aid use among patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease dementia: A qualitative study

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 ◽  
pp. 205031212090457
Author(s):  
Sarah Gregory ◽  
Jo Billings ◽  
Danielle Wilson ◽  
Gill Livingston ◽  
Anne GM Schilder ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Alzheimer’S Disease ◽  
Alzheimer's Disease ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Mild Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Hearing Aids ◽  
Hearing Aid ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Hearing Aid Use ◽  
Age Range

Objectives: Hearing aid usage supports communication and independence; however, many do not use their hearing aids. This study explored the experiences of hearing aid use in adults with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease. Methods: Participants completed semi-structured interviews which were analysed using thematic analysis. Ten people (six males, age range 75–86 years old) with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease who had been fitted with hearing aids were recruited to the study. Results: We identified four major themes: (1) memory and other cognitive barriers to using hearing aids, (2) practical aspects of hearing aids, (3) benefits of hearing aids, and (4) ambivalence towards hearing aids. Conclusions: Participants perceived a significant impact of cognitive impairment on the experience of using hearing aids. This population may benefit from targeted strategies to support use of hearing aids. The findings from this study can inform future research to optimise use of hearing aids in this population.

scholarly journals Frequency of and risk factors for potentially inappropriate medication use in Parkinson’s disease

2020 ◽  
Vol 49 (5) ◽  
pp. 786-792
Author(s):  
Danielle S Abraham ◽  
Thanh Phuong Pham Nguyen ◽  
Sean Hennessy ◽  
Daniel Weintraub ◽  
Shelly L Gray ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Parkinson’S Disease ◽  
Parkinson's Disease ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Inappropriate Medication ◽  
Potentially Inappropriate Medication ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Motor Symptoms ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Background impairments in neurotransmitter pathways put Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients at risk for drug–disease interactions and adverse medication events. Objective to determine the prevalence and risk factors for potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) prescriptions, as defined by the 2015 Beers List, in PD. Methods cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 2014 Medicare beneficiaries with PD who had parts A, B and D coverage. The prevalence of PIM prescriptions for older adults was determined overall, and specifically for medications that can exacerbate motor symptoms or cognitive impairment in PD. Logistic regression models were constructed to determine the association between age, sex, race, geography and poverty with PIM prescriptions. Results the final sample included 458,086 beneficiaries. In 2014, 35.8% of beneficiaries with PD filled a prescription for at least one PIM for older adults. In total, 8.7% of beneficiaries received a PIM that could exacerbate motor symptoms and 29.0% received a PIM that could worsen cognitive impairment. After adjustment, in all models, beneficiaries who were younger, female, white, urban-dwelling and eligible for Medicaid benefits were more likely to receive a PIM. Conclusion PIM prescriptions are not uncommon in PD, particularly for medications that can exacerbate cognitive impairment. Future research will examine underlying drivers of sex and other disparities in PIM prescribing. Additional studies are needed to understand the impact of PIMs on disease symptoms, healthcare utilisation and patient outcomes.

The Six Dimensions of Wellness and Cognition in Aging Adults

2012 ◽  
Vol 30 (3) ◽  
pp. 195-204 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kelley Ann Strout ◽  
Elizabeth P. Howard
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Cognitive Impairment ◽  
Formal Education ◽  
Negative Impact ◽  
One Dimension ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Healthy Nutrition ◽  
Six Dimensions ◽  
Future Of Nursing ◽  
Aging Adults

Objective: Examine how wellness in six dimensions (occupational, social, intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual) protects cognition in aging adults. Background: cognitive impairment increases with age. Baby boomers represent a significant percent of the population at risk for cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment has a negative impact on nursing resources, health care finances, patient mortality, and quality of life. Wellness and prevention is one focus of Institute of Medicine’s vision for the future of nursing. Method: Literature was retrieved from Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and MEDLINE. Research that examined the affect of wellness in each of the six dimensions on cognition in older adults was included. Results: One or more of the following may protect cognition in aging: midlife occupation complexity, marriage, social networks, formal education, intellectual activities, physical activity, healthy nutrition, motivational ability, purpose in life, and spirituality. Conclusion: Wellness in one or more of the six dimensions may protect cognition in aging. The cognitive protective benefits may increase when wellness in more than one dimension is demonstrated. High wellness in one dimension may protect cognition by compensating for low wellness in another dimension. The interconnectedness of each of the dimensions signifies the importance of evaluating older adults holistically. Wellness throughout the life span may result in improved cognition in aging. Application: Future research is needed to examine the relationship between the six dimensions of wellness and cognition, and to determine if one dimension of wellness is a significant predictor of cognitive health in aging adults.

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