Promoting Seniors' Health With Home Care Aides: A Pilot. (17th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Muramatsu, Naoko; Yin, Lijuan; Berbaum, Michael L; Marquez, David X; Jurivich, Donald A; Zanoni, Joseph P; Cruz Madrid, Katya Y; Walton, Surrey M
• Is Part Of: Gerontologist. Volume 58:Number 4(2018)
• Page Start: 779
• Page End: 788
• Publication Date: 2017-06-17
• Subjects: Activities of daily living -- Medicaid -- Implementation science -- Home and community-based services -- Physical activity -- Quality improvement; Older people -- Periodicals; Older people -- United States -- Periodicals; 305.2605
• DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnx101
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0016-9013

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose: Regular physical activity (PA) benefits older adults. However, frail older adults lack opportunities to be physically active. This pilot study aimed to test and enhance the feasibility of a PA program delivered by home care aides (HCAs) for community-dwelling older adults in a Medicaid-funded home care setting and to generate preliminary efficacy and cost data. Design and Methods: HCAs were trained to deliver a brief motivational enhancement and three chair-bound movements to motivate their older clients to do PA daily and to help maintain their independence in the community. Mixed methods were used to evaluate clients' function and health before and after the 4-month intervention. Results: Clients' daily activity function and health outcomes (physical fitness, self-rated health, pain interference, and fear of falling) improved significantly. The program was well-received by clients ( N = 54) and their HCAs ( N = 46) as indicated by high retention rates among client participants (93%) and remarks provided by clients. Implications: Building PA into the everyday care of older adults and the routine work of HCAs is feasible. The intervention has the potential for further implementation and dissemination.