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O3‐07‐03: Hospital readiness communication tools: A feasibility study
Author(s) -
Schulz Mary,
Parke Belinda,
Hunter Kathleen F.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.713
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1552-5279
pISSN - 1552-5260
DOI - 10.1016/j.jalz.2015.07.275
Subject(s) - dementia , emergency department , dyad , focus group , medicine , harm , population , data collection , nursing , medical emergency , psychology , disease , social psychology , statistics , environmental health , mathematics , pathology , marketing , business
developed by clinicians affiliated with a long term care provider in PA, was conceptualized, implemented and researched in an active clinical care setting, and thus, represents a viable solution to the growing challenge of improving function for individuals with dementia through rehabilitation services. The NET model incorporates person centered care practices into therapy interventions that draw upon functionally based, familiar activities and are delivered in an environment that supports engagement by individuals with cognitive impairment. Therapists using the NET model receive specialized training and support to increase knowledge about dementia and efficacy in working with this population, and are supported by an coordinated team approach to care. Research on the model has revealed that NET rehabilitation services result in significantly greater engagement in the therapy process and improved functional outcomes. In addition, therapists trained in NET demonstrate improved knowledge and efficacy in their work with individuals with dementia. This presentation will begin by exploring the challenges associated with successfully providing rehabilitation services to individuals with cognitive impairment and the growing need for this type of care. We will then provide participants with an introduction to the NET model and the key dementia care practices that are integrated into therapy services. Finally, we will review the findings from the NET research project conducted in 3 skilled nursing home based rehabilitation programs, exploring the impact on both therapists and clients involved in the NET program. The study looked at outcomes for 46 therapists, i.e. physical, occupational and speech therapists, and 85 short term rehabiliation patients with moderate to severe dementia over the course of 12 weeks and documented positive outcomes in patient engagement and function, as well as therapist knowledge and efficacy in dementia care. Next steps for the NET program and the current challenges to this kind of work within short term rehabiliation systems will be discussed. Specific focus will be on the operational and financial challenges associated with enhanced rehabilitation care for individuals with dementia.