ORCID Profile
0000-0002-9678-5580
Current Organisation
La Trobe University
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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Public Health and Health Services | Health and Community Services | Residential Client Care | Aged Health Care | Family Law | Policy and Administration | Social And Community Psychology | Mental Health | Health Economics | Social Change | Social Policy And Planning
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Health Status (e.g. Indicators of Well-Being) | Understanding other countries | The distribution of wealth | Changing work patterns | Preference, Behaviour and Welfare | Public Health (excl. Specific Population Health) not elsewhere classified | Families and Family Services | Expanding Knowledge in Law and Legal Studies | Health and Support Services not elsewhere classified |
Related Links
Publications
Use of Quality Indicators in Nursing Homes in Victoria, Australia
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 30-04-2014
Abstract: Objective: This study aimed to characterize the use of mandated quality indicators (QIs) in public sector nursing homes by describing their adherence to established principles of measurement and whether nursing homes respond to QI data to improve care. Method: Data were collected from a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study using a confidential survey questionnaire distributed electronically to senior staff in all public sector nursing homes in Victoria, Australia. Results: Staff from 113 of 196 facilities completed the survey (58%). Adherence to principles of measurement was suboptimal, with variation in applying QI definitions and infrequent random audits of data ( n = 54, 48%). QI data triggered reviews of in idual residents (62%-79%), staff practice (44%-65%), and systems of care (45%-55%). Most facilities (58%-75%) reported that beneficial changes in care occurred as a result of using QIs. Discussion: QI performance data are positively received and used to improve care. Standardization of data collection, analysis, and reporting should strengthen the program’s utility.
Experiences of ageing and aged care in Australia of older survivors of genocide
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 06-11-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X12001109
Abstract: This qualitative study investigated the ageing and aged care experiences in Australia of two cohorts of older survivors of genocide: Jewish Holocaust survivors and older Cambodian genocide survivors. It was carried out in response to an identified need to better train aged care workers who are in contact with these groups. In-depth interviews were conducted with 21 community-dwelling survivors aged 65 and over. Credibility was ensured by methodological triangulation and peer debriefing. The study highlighted the importance of understanding older survivors’ ageing and aged care experiences in the context of their entire lifecourse and in terms of both vulnerability and resilience. It showed that trauma history can heighten older survivors’ sensitivity to many aspects of the social and physical environments in residential, community and home-based aged care settings. The study also uncovered the potential for aged care services to help older survivors cope with the psycho-social and emotional effects of resurfacing post-traumatic stress symptoms. The implications of the study findings for care practice include the importance of recognising older survivors of genocide as a distinct group of clients and the need to distinguish staff training for caring for this client group from general cultural awareness training.
Flexible working arrangements in residential aged care: Applying a person–environment fit model
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-02-2017
Australian Baby Boomers Face Retirement During the Global Financial Crisis
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2013.795382
Abstract: This paper examines the impact in Australia of the global financial crisis on the baby boom cohort approaching later life. Data from national focus groups of people aged 50 to 64 years (N = 73), conducted in late 2008, found widespread but variable concern and uncertainty concerning work and retirement plans and experiences. A national survey (N = 1,009) of those aged 50 to 64 years in mid-2009 reported lower levels of financial satisfaction compared with other life domains many planned to postpone retirement. Findings are interpreted in the context of policies and markets that differed significantly from those in the United States, notwithstanding the global nature of the financial crisis.
Senior staff perspectives of a quality indicator program in public sector residential aged care services: a qualitative cross-sectional study in Victoria, Australia
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1071/AH14197
Abstract: Objective The aims of the present study were to describe the views of senior clinical and executive staff employed in public sector residential aged care services (RACS) about the benefits and limitations of using quality indicators (QIs) for improving care, and to identify any barriers or enablers to implementing the QI program. Methods A cross-sectional qualitative study using semistructured interviews and direct observation of key informants involved in the QI program was performed across 20 public sector RACS in Victoria, Australia. Participants included senior clinical, executive and front-line staff at the RACS. The main outcome measures were perceived benefits and the enablers or barriers to the implementation of a QI program. Results Most senior clinical and executive staff respondents reported substantive benefits to using the QIs and the QI program. A limited number of staff believed that the QI program failed to improve the quality of care and that the resource requirements outweighed the benefits of the program, resulting in disaffected staff. Conclusions The QIs and QI program acted as a foundation for improving standards of care when used at the front line or point of care. Senior executive engagement in the QI program was vital to successful implementation. What is known about this topic? QIs measure the structures, processes or outcomes of care and identify issues that need further investigation or improvement. QIs are increasingly being adopted throughout the world. In Australia, the public sector RACS QIs project was implemented in 2006. It is yet to be formally evaluated. What does this paper add? Perceived benefits and limitations of the QI program were identified, together with barriers to successful implementation of the program and recommendations for future improvements. QI data were reported to improve quality culture and assist with identifying clinical areas for improvement. However, the QI program was associated with significantly increased workload and some stakeholders questioned its usefulness. The QI program studied could be improved through better access to education and training for those responsible for data collection and results dissemination to appropriate training and resources and revision of the QI definitions and reporting methods. What are the implications for clinicians? QI data are useful for identifying opportunities for quality improvement. Despite data limitations, public sector RACS can use data for internal benchmarking, staff education and targeting of quality improvement interventions. At the policy level, revising the QI definitions and simplifying data collection and reporting would improve and strengthen the program. At the clinician and executive level, there is also a strong preference for QI data that allow comparison and benchmarking between facilities.
The experience of ageing: Influences on mental health and well-being
Publisher: Routledge
Date: 10-09-2012
Psychological resources and successful retirement
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-1999
The work-life interface: A critical factor between work stressors and job satisfaction
Publisher: Emerald
Date: 04-06-2019
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to explore job satisfaction, and how the work-life interface might affect job satisfaction, among residential aged care staff. The statistical package PROCESS was used to analyse the impacts of workplace stressors (poor safety climate, poor relationships with colleagues and poor relationships with management) and potential mediating variables that measured aspects of the work-life interface, specifically work-family conflict (WFC) and work-life balance. This survey research was carried out through distribution of a paper-based questionnaire to approximately 800 permanent, fixed term and casual employees working in residential aged care. All job roles, including both direct care and support staff, were represented in the s le. WFC and work-life balance act serially to mediate the relationships between workplace stressors and job satisfaction. Study participants were restricted to residential aged care facilities in the metropolitan Melbourne area, Australia, limiting generalisability of the findings. The work-life interface is a legitimate concern for human resources managers. Implications include need for greater understanding of the contribution of work-life fit to job satisfaction. Interventions to improve job satisfaction should take into account how workplace stressors affect the work-life interface, as well as job-related outcomes. Enhanced work-life fit should improve job-related outcomes. This paper explores the potential mediating roles of WFC and work-life balance on job satisfaction and demonstrates a pathway through which the work-life interface affects job satisfaction for workers in residential aged care.
“I’m more aware now”: perspectives from people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), supporters and counsellors about the MAXCOG cognitive rehabilitation intervention
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-02-2019
Evaluation of the impact of The Little Things training on personal care assistants' confidence to communicate with residents in aged care
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-08-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.13135
Abstract: To evaluate The Little Things training program, designed to assist personal care assistants (PCAs) from culturally and linguistically erse (CALD) backgrounds to communicate more effectively with aged care residents. This project included PCAs from residential aged care facilities (RACFs) and Certificate III students from registered training organisations (RTOs) in Melbourne, Australia. A control group ( n = 18) was also included. Measures included the following: pre‐ and posttraining confidence to communicate and rankings of task importance posttraining perceived change in confidence and posttraining impacts on practice. Altogether, 75 PCAs and 30 RTO students participated in Intake I of the training and 31 PCAs and 34 RTO students in Intake 2. Confidence increased in The Little Things participants relative to those in the control group (β = 0.11, T = 1.99, p = 0.05). Change did not vary by Intake or whether someone was in the RACF or RTO group, F (2, 147) = 0.58, p = 0.5 nor by sociodemographic characteristics. Most training participants (84%) thought their ability to communicate with older people would ‘improve a lot’ as a result of the training. Training participants also ranked the importance of duties such as ‘Speaking in a friendly and informal way to older people’ more highly after than before the training ( p = 0.01), while little change was observed in the control group. The Little Things program increased training participants' confidence to communicate and shifted perceived priorities towards interacting with residents in a way that enhanced resident well‐being.
Aged care managers' perceptions of staff preparedness for caring for older survivors of genocide and mass trauma in A ustralia: How prepared are aged care workers?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-03-2016
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12286
Abstract: To investigate aged care managers' perceptions of staff preparedness for working with older people who experienced genocide or mass trauma earlier in their lives (referred to in this paper as 'older survivors'). A survey of 60 aged care service managers was conducted (50% response rate). Trauma knowledge and skills scales with Cronbach's alpha scores of 0.74 and 0.90 respectively, were used. Scores across groups were compared using Student's t-tests. Three-quarters of the respondents reported that their agency had provided aged care services for older survivors. The majority of these managers perceived their staff to be moderately informed about trauma-related issues and half rated staff trauma-related skills positively. These ratings were positively associated with trauma-related staff training, service type and service location. Results suggest that, overall, managers perceive a need to improve aged care staff's preparedness for providing care for older survivors.
Psychological therapies for depression in older adults residing in long-term care settings
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-06-2018
How well have senior Australians been coping in the COVID-19 pandemic?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12880
Institutional placement of a dementing spouse: The influence of appraisal, coping strategies, and social support
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 08-1998
Psychometric properties of the Caring Efficacy Scale among personal care attendants working in residential aged care settings
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-05-2023
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.13211
Abstract: This study assessed the psychometric properties of the Caring Efficacy Scale (CES) among personal care attendants providing care to older residents in residential aged care settings. This cross‐sectional study was completed in Australia in 2020–2021. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) of the 30‐item original CES (Model 1) and 28‐item CES validated in registered nurses (Model 2) was conducted to assess the goodness of fit of these models in our study population. Due to unsatisfactory fit indices for both models, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to examine the dimensionality and underlying structure of the original CES among personal care attendants. Internal consistency of the final scale and subscales identified was examined using item‐total correlations and Cronbach's alpha coefficients. Two hundred and eighty personal care attendants participated in the study. The model fit indices such as Comparative Fit Index and Tucker Lewis Index of both models were less than 0.90, while the Standardised Root Mean Square Residual and Root Mean Square of Approximation values were greater than or equal to 0.08 and 0.06, respectively. The EFA identified a two‐factor structure, and 22 items of the 30 in the original scale were retained. Item‐total correlations amongst items retained in the scale and subscales were greater than 0.3. Cronbach's alpha for the abbreviated scale was 0.85, with 0.83 and 0.79, respectively, for the two subscales. The modified CES can be used as a robust tool to assess the self‐efficacy of personal care attendants in providing care to older residents in residential aged care settings.
Health and Well-Being of Spouse Caregivers and the Widowed
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 10-1997
Abstract: The appropriateness of the stress-coping and life transitions models for late life experiences was assessed by examining psychosocial correlates of spouse caregiving in association with widowhood. Data were from the Health Status of Older People (HSOP) survey of 1,000 people aged 65 and over living in the community in Melbourne, Australia. Caregiving was found to be a usual precursor to widowhood and may have prepared older people for widowhood. However, these two life experiences had different consequences. While widowhood appears to be the more severe transition, caring for a spouse often seriously threatens the meaningfulness of life.
Choice and quality in home-based and community-based aged care: Insights from two rapid evidence reviews
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 13-12-2019
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X19001065
Abstract: As consumer-directed care programmes become increasingly common in aged care provision, there is a heightened requirement for literature summarising the experience and perspectives of recipients. We conducted rapid evidence reviews on two components of consumer experience of home- and community-based aged care: (a) drivers of choice when looking for a service (Question 1 (Q1)) and (b) perceptions of quality of services (Question 2 (Q2)). We systematically searched MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, and conducted manual (non-systematic) searches of primary and grey literature ( e.g. government reports) across CINAHL, Scopus, PsychINFO, and Web of Science, Trove and OpenGrey databases. Articles deemed eligible after abstract/full-text screening subsequently underwent risk-of-bias assessment to ensure their quality. The final included studies (Q1: N = 21 Q2: N = 19) comprised both quantitative and qualitative articles, which highlighted that consumer choices of services are driven by a combination of: desire for flexibility in service provision optimising mobility need for personal assistance, security and safety, interaction, and social/leisure activities and to target and address previously unmet needs. Similarly, consumer perspectives of quality include control and autonomy, interpersonal interactions, flexibility of choice, and safety and affordability. Our reviews suggest that future model development should take into account consumers’ freedom to choose services in a flexible manner, and the value they place on interpersonal relationships and social interaction.
Psychosocial modification of general self-efficacy in older adults: A restricted review.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-03-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.13052
Abstract: In recent years, the concept of general self-efficacy has increased in popularity. General self-efficacy is positively associated with quality of life and has the potential to act as a psychological buffer against adverse events and circumstances. However, due to the long-term influences that are said to shape general self-efficacy beliefs, they may be resistant to intervention, particularly within the older population. This restricted review aimed to explore whether psychosocial interventions could improve the general self-efficacy of older adults. Aspects of intervention design associated with improvements were also investigated. A restricted review was undertaken. This included a keyword search of four major health databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and AgeLine). Search terms focused on general self-efficacy and the commonly used measures of this concept and were limited to the older adult population. In total, 848 articles were screened, with 20 studies proceeding to data extraction. The modification of general self-efficacy in older adults appears possible, with 7 out of the 20 included studies reporting improvements postintervention. Despite issues relating to the quality of included studies and the generalisability of their results, several aspects of intervention design coincided with intervention success, including intervention duration, and employing sufficiently-qualified staff. Future research must address the generalisability issues identified in this review. Studies comparing the effectiveness of in idual- and group-based interventions, the efficacy of remote delivery platforms and the possibility for long-term transfer of any improvements are needed to contribute the high-quality data required for policy and practice decisions in this area.
Gender Differences in Depressive Symptoms Among Older People Living in the Community
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-1998
Cultures of caregiving: Conflict and common ground among Families, Health Professional, and Policy Makers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2008
Current issues on ageing in Japan: A comparison with Australia
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-02-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1741-6612.2007.00258.X
Abstract: Japan's demography has changed dramatically, and with it, Japanese society and the circumstances of older people. These changes include shifts in family roles and functions, employment and social relations. Traditionally, families provided financial, physical and psychological support to their parents in the same household. While the proportion of older Japanese who live with adult children is still high in comparison to the rate in Western developed countries, patterns of care in Japan are gradually shifting towards the Western model. Public pensions supply financial support and the Long-Term Care Insurance System (LCIS) provides substantial physical care for frail older people. This paper focuses on current issues for older people in Japan, and provides a brief comparison with the situation in Australia. Japan's LCIS provides a simpler and more consistent basis for funding long-term care than Australia's system. On the other hand, Australia's pension system is comparatively robust.
The Availability of Psychological Services for Aged Care Residents in Australia: A Survey of Facility Staff
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AP.12244
Characteristics of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Older Adults Living in Residential Care: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 04-07-2018
DOI: 10.2196/RESPROT.9902
The role of psychologists in fostering the wellbeing of older Australians
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2003
The change in quality of life for older Australians: A rural and urban comparison.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.12553
Abstract: To assess the quality of life of older Australians living in rural and urban communities over time. Panel survey conducted in 2012-2013 and 2014-2015. Participants lived in metropolitan Melbourne (urban s le, N = 279), rural Victoria (N = 98) or Tasmania (N = 47). All participants (N = 424) were clients of aged care providers or residents in retirement housing or residential care. Quality of life. A repeated-measures analysis of variance showed a decrease in quality of life over time. There was no difference in change in quality of life over time by location of participants (urban vs rural). Multiple regression analysis showed that resilience predicted baseline quality of life in all three locations. These findings generally did not support significant differences between geographic locations in trajectories of older adults' quality of life over time. Instead, in iduals' resilience appears to be the strongest predictor of quality of life.
Willingness to Provide Spousal Care if Needed in the Future
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-1994
Does gradual retirement have better outcomes than abrupt retirement? Results from an Australian panel study
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 29-08-2007
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X07006228
Abstract: Conventional wisdom promotes gradual retirement rather than an abrupt end to the working life. This paper compares the outcomes of abrupt and gradual retirement one and three years after the transition to retirement began using data from an Australian panel study. The outcomes included changes in health, positive and negative affect, wellbeing and marital cohesion. For many outcomes there was no difference between gradual and abrupt retirements, but those who retired abruptly were more likely to rate their health as having deteriorated and more likely to report better adjustment to retirement. Control over retirement decisions was also explored it emerged as a more important factor in retirement wellbeing than whether the transition was gradual or abrupt. The absence of interaction or additive effects between the retirement pathway and the level of control over the process confirmed this result. Thus there is no simple answer to the question in the title. Retiring gradually allows time for people to make changes to their lifestyle, but having control over the timing and manner of leaving work had a greater positive impact on psychological and social wellbeing, and this persisted three years after retirement. The findings suggest that policies and employment practices that promote employees' control of their retirement decisions will enhance wellbeing in later life and facilitate longer workforce participation.
Approving for a Community Aged Care Package: Experiences and perceptions of six metropolitan aged care assessment service teams
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-08-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1741-6612.2010.00452.X
Abstract: To establish whether the experiences and perceptions of different metropolitan Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) teams when approving people for Community Aged Care Packages (CACPs) were similar. Six semi-structured 30-minute group interviews were completed. ACAS team approval processes for CACPs were similar. The primary criterion for approval was need for case management. Many factors, however, impinged on the approval process. Barriers to making approvals included long waiting times, a lack of confidence in the priority rating system, and consideration of whether a person was better off with Home and Community Care services because of the impact of the Australian Government's Cost Recovery policy. ACAS teams have competing considerations when approving a person for a CACP. In particular, structural barriers, such as cost recovery policies, can have a significant negative impact on approval decisions.
Health, lifestyle, and gender influences on aging well: an Australian longitudinal analysis to guide health promotion
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 02-07-2014
Quality and Safety in Aged Care Virtual Issue: What Australian research published in the Australasian Journal on Ageing tells us
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12638
Abstract: To review studies published in the Australasian Journal on Ageing (AJA) about the aged care workforce, and to identify influences on quality of care and potential policy directions. Articles in the AJA on the aged care workforce published from 2009 to 2018 were identified, grouped into themes and rated for quality. Twenty-eight articles were identified. Articles fell into four themes: (i) staff knowledge, skills and attitudes (ii) staff well-being and workforce stability (iii) environmental factors that influence staff capacity and (iv) interventions to improve staff capacity. Studies reinforced the importance of staff-consumer, staff-relatives and staff-staff relationships and a supportive workplace culture for staff work ability and capacity to provide high quality care. It is possible to improve practice in community and residential aged care, given: (i) enough staff (ii) better training in person-centred practice and (iii) a supportive staff culture that encourages staff to put their training into practice.
Working longer: What is the relationship between person-environment fit and retirement intentions?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-07-2015
Health, social and lifestyle factors in entry to residential aged care: An Australian longitudinal analysis
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-03-2010
Abstract: strategies to enable older people to remain in their own homes require information on potential intervention areas and target groups for health promotion and healthcare services. this study aimed to identify socioeconomic, health and lifestyle factors in entry to residential aged care facilities. a prospective cohort study was conducted from 1994 to 2005. the information source was the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing Program. one thousand Australians aged 65 years and over living in the community were used as baseline s le. socio-medical data were gathered in face-to-face baseline interviews, and outcomes were identified in biennial follow-ups with respondents, informants and death registries over 12 years. Cox regression models identified baseline predictors of subsequent entry to residential aged care for men and women from among socio-demographic, health status and lifestyle factors. the most significant factors were older age, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL) dependence, cognitive impairment, underweight body mass index (BMI) and low social activity. For men only, the number of medical conditions and healthy nutrition score also emerged as significant. For women only, never having been married, IADL dependence and low BMI also were significant. For men, the risk of entry to residential aged care facilities was associated mainly with disease burden, whereas for women, social vulnerability and functional capacities were more important. Healthy lifestyles were important indirectly insofar as they influenced subjects' health status. to facilitate older people to stay in the community, it is important to treat or ameliorate medical conditions, promote healthy lifestyles and consider gender-specific risks.
Effectiveness of the maximising cognition (MAXCOG) information resource for clients with mild cognitive impairment and their families
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-11-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12479
Abstract: To evaluate a new information resource developed for clients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early dementia and their family supporters. A controlled group trial was undertaken comparing 40 clients and family supporters who received 'service as usual' followed by 40 clients and family supporters who received 'service as usual' plus the new information resource. Telephone interviews comprising open questions, ratings and a quality-of-life questionnaire were undertaken two to four weeks after the client's final feedback session. The two groups (equivalent on sex, age and cognition) showed a similar pattern of responses regarding handout use and evaluation. However, family supporters in the group who received and read the new resource were better able to describe their use of cognitive management strategies. Some family supporters appeared to benefit from using the new resource but people with MCI may require further face-to-face support to learn new strategies.
Costs of Community Care Services for Individuals with Complex Needs
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-1999
Identifying seminal papers in the A ustralasian Journal on Ageing 1982–2011: A Delphi consensus approach
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12111
Abstract: The aim of this study was to identify seminal Australasian Journal on Ageing papers published over 30 years through a Delphi consensus process. The main data collection was a three-round Delphi consensus study with 38 past and current members of the Australasian Journal on Ageing Editorial Board, Editorial Team and Management Committee. Three papers were agreed as top-ranking. One of the top-ranking articles was also highly cited. One article was published in the 1990 s, two in 2001. While it is difficult to judge how well the top-ranking papers represent seminal papers arising over 30 years, these papers do represent three different research strengths in Australasia, they do span three different disciplines, and they do reflect some of the ersity that characterises ageing research in Australasia over 30 years.
Pastoral Care in Aged Care Settings: Role and Challenges
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-02-2021
Australasian Journal on Ageing's Book Award 2002
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2002
Synthesis of silica vesicles with controlled entrance size for high loading, sustained release, and cellular delivery of therapeutical proteins
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 24-07-2014
Abstract: A rationally designed two-step synthesis of silica vesicles is developed with the formation of vesicular structure in the first step and fine control over the entrance size by tuning the temperature in the second step. The silica vesicles have a uniform size of ≈50 nm with excellent cellular uptake performance. When the entrance size is equal to the wall thickness, silica vesicles after hydrophobic modification show the highest loading amount (563 mg/g) towards Ribonuclease A with a sustained release behavior. Consequently, the silica vesicles are excellent nano-carriers for cellular delivery applications of therapeutical biomolecules.
Health and Wellbeing through Work and Retirement Transitions in Mature Age: Understanding Pre—Post and Retrospective Measures of Change
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-2009
DOI: 10.2190/AG.69.4.C
Abstract: The capacity to measure change is essential in examining successful adaptation to ageing. Few studies measuring change have compared findings using pre—post approaches (employing difference scores) with those from retrospective approaches (employing self-ratings). Where this has occurred, differences have been attributed either to ceiling and floor effects or to the operation of social comparison (Choi, 2002, 2003). Our study compared pre—post and retrospective measures of change in health, health behaviors, and wellbeing over periods of 1 and 3 years among retirees. Retrospective measures were found to be more positive than pre—post measures. This discrepancy was associated with floor and ceiling effects and with a robust self-image, but not with recency, social comparison, or social desirability response sets. Pre—post difference scores have limitations as indicators of change, particularly where ceiling effects operate. A retrospective perception of improvement, combined with deterioration in scores, may result from successful psychological adaptation as people grow older.
Relationship between frailty and discharge outcomes in subacute care
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1071/AH13067
Abstract: Aims To determine whether level of frailty can predict length of stay, discharge destination, level of participation in physiotherapy, and degree of physical improvement with physiotherapy in older, subacute hospital patients. Method The Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) was administered to 75 older people in a subacute hospital setting. Relationships between EFS score and a range of other measures, including participation in physiotherapy, Elderly Mobility Scale, discharge destination and length of stay, were examined. Results Level of frailty did not predict length of stay (rho = –0.13, P = 0.24), discharge destination (t = –1.32, P = 0.19), raw change on the Elderly Mobility Scale (rho = 0.06, P = 0.61) or rate of change on the Elderly Mobility Scale (r = –0.001, P = 0.98). In addition, participants with a high level of frailty were more likely to achieve a satisfactory level of participation in physiotherapy sessions than those with low frailty (OR 1.43, P = 0.02). Conclusion Level of frailty measured with the EFS was not a useful predictor of rehabilitation and discharge outcomes for older people in subacute care. These results do not support the routine use of the EFS to measure frailty in subacute care. What is known about this topic? In a community-dwelling population, level of frailty has been found to predict poor outcomes from surgery, falls, fractures, disability, need for residential care and mortality. However, little is known about the impacts of frailty in a subacute setting, nor how frailty could best be measured in this setting. What does this paper add? The use of the EFS as a predictive tool was not supported by the results of this exploratory study. What are the implications for practitioners? Alternative frailty measures may be more suitable than the EFS for patients in a subacute setting.
Development and validation of the Family Law DOORS.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 11-2016
DOI: 10.1037/PAS0000277
Abstract: When former spouses experience distress and dispute following separation, risks to well-being and to safety are heightened for all family members. Reliable family-wide risk screening is essential. The Family Law DOORS (Detection of Overall Risk Screen) is a 3-part screening framework to assist identification, evaluation, and response to safety and well-being risks in separated families. Uniquely, the Family Law DOORS screens for victimization and perpetration risks and appraises infant and child developmental risk. The Family Law DOORS self-report screening tool is the subject of this report. Internal scale reliability and concurrent and external criterion validity for the Family Law DOORS were estimated with a community s le of 660 separated parents, including 181 mother-father pairs. Overall psychometric properties are strong and demonstrate good potential for the Family Law DOORS to support early risk detection for separating families. (PsycINFO Database Record
The health of Australian baby boomers
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1741-6612.2010.00412.X
Abstract: The large baby boomer cohort is beginning to reach retirement age. This paper reviews recent Australian literature on baby boomers' health and health behaviours. Databases were searched for peer-reviewed literature and the Internet for online studies and reports. The boomers can expect an increased life span compared to those in later life now. Boomers' health behavioural risks include physical inactivity, low vegetable consumption, obesity and rising medical risk due to increasing prevalence of diabetes. Their health will impact on workforce participation and retirement timing. There is substantial scope for health improvement and consequent quality of life as boomers age. However, little is known about health decision-making, inequalities between social groups and health information sources. Future research can yield a better understanding of the health trajectories of baby boomers in order to plan for health and service needs for an ageing Australia.
What predicts consumer experience in residential aged care? An analysis of consumer experience report data
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 30-03-2021
DOI: 10.1071/AH20270
Abstract: Objectives This study explored whether consumer experience report (CER) data from residential aged care services (RACSs) could be combined into a general factor and determined whether poor experience in RACSs could be predicted by known resident or home characteristics or s ling procedures. Methods CER data collected by structured interviews in 2018 and early 2019 were analysed using structural equation modelling and linear regression analysis. Results Data were available from 17 194 interviews undertaken at 1159 RACSs. The 10 CER items loaded onto two independent factors. Bifactorial modelling indicated that items could be combined into a general factor. Controlling for state or territory, consumer experience was best predicted by home size: those in large facilities reported poorer experience than those in smaller facilities. Other significant negative predictors with small effect sizes included not being independently mobile, being male and not being randomly selected. Dementia did not predict total CER score. Conclusions The results of this study support the inclusion of people with dementia and exclusion of volunteer participants from published CERs. Further research is needed to explore why a relatively poor consumer experience is reported by people in larger homes, men and those with mobility issues. What is known about the topic? Poor experience in aged care is a persistent concern for government, in iduals and aged care services. The recent Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has identified systemic failure. Although many organisational features and processes have previously been identified as important in determining the quality of care, few studies have explored the characteristics that predict the consumer experience of residents in aged care. What does this paper add? This paper provides empirical evidence that several variables influence consumer experience in aged care, including facility size and resident sex and mobility. There is evidence that smaller facilities provide care that is perceived better by residents, and that men and people with mobility issues have worse experiences in aged care. There is a lack of clarity as to what other influences, such as facility ethos, facility location and staffing levels, may contribute to resident experience. Such clarity is important, because Australian aged care is currently facing comprehensive scrutiny, and governments are looking to ensure the safety and quality of aged care services. What are the implications for practitioners? Identifying and addressing inequities in aged care services and mitigating risks must be a priority in Australia to ensure aged care services provide safe and high-quality care. The results of this study challenge current funding structures that encourage the development of larger aged care homes, and instead suggest that better funding for smaller-sized facilities may be able to improve the experience of residents in aged care. The results also suggest that facilities and governments should attend to the experiences of specific groups, such as men and people with mobility issues.
Care trajectories through community and residential aged care services: Disease effects
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 16-01-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X11001231
Abstract: As in other ageing populations, dementia, musculoskeletal conditions and cardiovascular disease affect a high proportion of Australians aged over 65 years, and the prevalence of these conditions increases significantly with age. People with these conditions may need to access a range of care services over time to enable them to remain living in their homes. Many eventually need to move into a nursing home. In contrast to the considerable recent literature on the funding of long-term care systems for population ageing, studies on the care pathways followed by in iduals are much less common. This paper explores the effect of disease on use of community care services and nursing homes over time, focusing on people with dementia, cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal conditions. Care-use transitions are identified using linked administrative client data for a cohort of 33,300 community-living Australians who had an aged care assessment in 2003-04 and who had not previously used aged care services. The different symptoms and courses of diseases meant that the patterns of aged care service use, both in terms of care services accessed and the timing of this access, varied considerably for people with different health conditions. These differences persisted across a range of client characteristics. In particular, people with dementia or cerebrovascular disease as their main health condition were more likely to enter nursing home care than those with heart disease or musculoskeletal conditions. The variation in use of aged care services according to disease group need to be taken into account in any projections of demand for aged care. Such projections must allow for predictions of disease prevalence, or else they will yield inaccurate predictions of demand for both community and residential care.
The Psychology of respite care for people with dementia in Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-2011
Self‐reported musculoskeletal disorder pain: The role of job hazards and work‐life interaction
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 09-11-2017
DOI: 10.1002/AJIM.22793
Abstract: Previous research identified an association between work-family conflict and musculoskeletal pain. This study explores how the work-life interface might affect pain experienced by residential aged care staff. A cross-sectional survey of 426 employees in residential aged care was analyzed to assess the impacts of workplace hazards, work-family conflict, and work-life balance on self-reported musculoskeletal pain. Work-family conflict acts as a mediator of the relationships between workplace hazards and the total number of body regions at which musculoskeletal pain was experienced. Work-life balance only acts as a mediator for particular hazards and only if work-family conflict is not taken into account. Addressing work-life interaction, and in particular work-family conflict, warrants further investigation as a legitimate means through which musculoskeletal disorder risk can be reduced. Policies and practices to improve work-life interaction and reduce work-family conflict should be considered as integral components of musculoskeletal disorder risk management strategies.
Development of a consumer experience reporting questionnaire for residential aged care homes in Australia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-04-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12664
Abstract: To develop and pilot a short interview tool to be implemented by the Australian Aged Care Quality Agency (AACQA) in residential aged care, to inform prospective consumers about the quality of care and services received-the consumer experience report (CER). Twenty-four questions addressing the four Aged Care Quality Standards were piloted with 140 residents and 48 representatives (including 27 resident-representative pairs). A method for approximating random selection was also trialled. Fifty-two residents were interviewed twice, one week apart, and each question's usability was rated by 11 surveyors and two interpreters. Selection criteria for questions included consumer preference, test-retest reliability, resident-representative agreement, usability and low missing data. Nineteen questions performed well on missing data, 16 on test-retest, 17 on resident-representative agreement and 12 on usability. Ten quantitative and two open-ended questions were selected. The CER questions proved suitable to collect data systematically on consumer experience in residential aged care. AACQA (now the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission) uses the CER interview to support their audit process, and aggregated results are published online.
The Lived Experience of Providing Care and Support Services for Holocaust Survivors in Australia
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 14-09-2016
Abstract: Lack of awareness among paid carers of the possible late-life consequences of early-life periods of extreme and prolonged traumatization may have negative impacts on the experiences of trauma survivors in receiving care. An interpretive phenomenological approach was used to investigate the lived experience of paid carers in providing care for Jewish Holocaust survivors. In total, 70 carers participated in 10 focus group discussions. Credibility of the findings was ensured by methodological triangulation and peer debriefing. Three major themes emerged: (a) knowing about survivors’ past helps me make sense of who they are, (b) the trauma adds an extra dimension to caregiving, and (c) caring for survivors has an emotional impact. Specific knowledge, attitudes, and skills for building positive care relationships with Holocaust survivors were identified. The findings offer a starting point for advancing knowledge about the care of older survivors from other refugee backgrounds.
Encyclopedia of GeropsychologyN. A.Pachana (ed). Springer, Singapore, 2017. ISBN 978‐981‐287‐083‐4. US$2,999.999.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12583
Characteristics of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Older Adults Living in Residential Care: Protocol for a Systematic Review (Preprint)
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 21-01-2018
Abstract: he prevalence rates of depressive and anxiety disorders are high in residential aged care settings. Older adults in such settings might be prone to these disorders because of losses associated with transitioning to residential care, uncertainty about the future, as well as a decline in personal autonomy, health, and cognition. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is efficacious in treating late-life depression and anxiety. However, there remains a dearth of studies examining CBT in residential settings compared with community settings. Typically, older adults living in residential settings have higher care needs than those living in the community. To date, no systematic reviews have been conducted on the content and the delivery characteristics of CBT for older adults living in residential aged care settings. he objective of this paper is to describe the systematic review protocol on the characteristics of CBT for depression and/or anxiety for older adults living in residential aged care settings. his protocol was developed in compliance with the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P). Studies that fulfill the inclusion criteria will be identified by systematically searching relevant electronic databases, reference lists, and citation indexes. In addition, the PRISMA flowchart will be used to record the selection process. A pilot-tested data collection form will be used to extract and record data from the included studies. Two reviewers will be involved in screening the titles and abstracts of retrieved records, screening the full text of potentially relevant reports, and extracting data. Then, the delivery and content characteristics of different CBT programs of the included studies, where available, will be summarized in a table. Furthermore, the Downs and Black checklist will be used to assess the methodological quality of the included studies. ystematic searches will commence in May 2018, and data extraction is expected to commence in July 2018. Data analyses and writing will happen in October 2018. n this section, the limitations of the systematic review will be outlined. Clinical implications for treating late-life depression and/or anxiety, and implications for residential care facilities will be discussed. ROSPERO 42017080113 www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=80113 (Archived by WebCite at 0dV4Qf54) R1-10.2196/9902
Ageing Baby Boomers in Australia: Evidence Informing Actions for Better Retirement
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-2009
‘Most significant change’ and the maximising cognition (MAXCOG) intervention: The views of clients, supporters and counsellors
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-10-2017
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12464
Abstract: To explore the views of clients, supporters and counsellors about their experiences of the maximising cognition (MAXCOG) intervention. The most significant change (MSC) method of analysis was used. Twenty-three narrative accounts of the MAXCOG intervention and the 'MSC' that occurred were obtained. A panel, including experts from Alzheimer's Australia, the MAXCOG research team and clinicians from memory clinics, conducted a workshop to discuss and categorise the accounts. Two subcategories of stories were identified: (i) An 'acceptance group' that focused on adjustment issues and (ii) A 'goal achievement' group with a focus on goals and improvement in ability and confidence. These subcategories mapped closely to the original goals outlined for the MAXCOG intervention. The MAXCOG intervention was successful in assisting people to work towards goals and adjust psychologically to difficulties.
Effects on Care-Givers of Special Day Care Programmes for Dementia Sufferers
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-1990
DOI: 10.3109/00048679009062889
Abstract: Two groups of care-givers to dementia sufferers were interviewed to assess their psychological symptoms and the behaviour problems of the dementia sufferers. The first group were using special dementia day care while the second group were about to begin using it. The second group were re-interviewed three months later. Therefore two comparisons could be made a with/without day care comparison and a before/after admission to day care comparison. Care-givers had a high level of psychological symptoms which were not significantly reduced by using day care. Full-time institutional care did reduce distress. Day centre clients continued to deteriorate as would be expected with a degenerative condition. While special dementia day care centres appear to play a useful role for many care-givers, they may provide too few hours relief per week to markedly reduce the care-givers' psychological symptoms. Family care-givers currently take the major role in caring for dementia sufferers in the community and the burden of care needs to be shared more equitably.
Australasian Journal on Ageing's Book Award 2003
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2003
Child-focused and child-inclusive Family Law dispute resolution: One year findings from a prospective study of outcomes
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2007
Older people: Issues and innovations in care (3rd edn)
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2011
Older Australians and hospital care
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-02-2012
The relationship between workplace characteristics and work ability in residential aged care: What is the role of work–life interaction?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-04-2019
DOI: 10.1111/JAN.13914
Abstract: To examine whether the work-life interface (through work-family conflict and overall work-life balance) moderates the relationship between work ability and workplace demands and resources. This study used a cross-sectional survey design to collect data from 426 employees working in residential aged care. A paper-based questionnaire was distributed to all permanent and casual employees at eight aged care facilities in Melbourne, Australia, between June - September 2013. Moderation analyses were conducted using PROCESS v. 2.13 in SPSS v. 22. As expected, workplace demands and resources directly influenced workers' work ability. In addition, moderate-to-high levels of work-family conflict and low-to-moderate levels of satisfaction with work-life balance combined interactively with particular workplace demands and resources (relationships with management, physical demands, and safety climate) to reduce work ability. This study advances understanding of how work-life balance and work-life conflict can influence work ability levels and shows that addressing the work-life interface may be a legitimate means to improve work ability, potentially leading to continued workforce participation. Staff retention in the residential aged care sector needs to be addressed. One possible means of achieving this is through improving work ability. This study expanded knowledge of how the work-life interface may influence work ability. The research demonstrated that relationships between work ability and particular workplace demands and resources were moderated by the work-life interface. This finding has implications for how human resources managers of residential aged care facilities may improve workforce retention-through facilitating employees to manage the work-life interface better.
Can organisational work–life policies improve work–life interaction? A scoping review
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-2020
DOI: 10.1111/AP.12469
Women of the baby boom generation and unpaid work -What are the indications for the future?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-2003
Evaluation of a Special Nursing Home Unit for Dementia Sufferers: A Randomised Controlled Comparison with Community Care
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 12-1987
DOI: 10.3109/00048678709158920
Abstract: Applicants for a newly opened special unit for dementia sufferers were randomly allocated to full-time care in the unit or placed on a waiting list and offered periodic respite care in the meantime. All applicants were living in the community at the time of random assignment. Both groups were followed up for three months to assess the effects on the dementia sufferers and on their family care-givers. Care-givers initially had a high level of psychological symptoms, which was greatly reduced after admission of the dementia sufferer to full-time care. By contrast, the care-givers of the community care group of sufferers continued to have a high level of symptoms. Dementia sufferers continued to deteriorate with both forms of care, with little difference between the two groups. Admission of dementia sufferers to full-time care in a special unit appears to be of great benefit to the psychological health of their care-givers and has no adverse effects on the dementia sufferers themselves.
Research and practice with older adults: The picture in Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-2005
Retirement intentions: what is the role of push factors in predicting retirement intentions?
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 30-04-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X12000281
Abstract: Population ageing will significantly impact labour markets in most Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development countries and as a result in iduals will need to remain in paid employment for longer to fund their retirement years. This study examines the retirement intentions of employees of a large public-sector organisation located in Victoria, Australia that was interested in developing policies to assist with retention of their mature-age workforce. Multivariate regression analyses were used to identify the most important predictors of intention to retire. The dependent variable, Intended timing of retirement, was analysed in two forms, as continuous and dichotomised measures. Age and Length of service were strong independent predictors of Intention to retire soon (within five years). Of the work factors that were analysed (Job satisfaction, Job demands, Job control, and Social cohesion), low Job satisfaction and high Social cohesion scores indicated an increased likelihood of retiring soon. The results provide some insight into the development of organisational interventions that might assist with retaining older employees for longer.
Re-examination of the Family Law Detection of Overall Risk Screen (FL-DOORS): Establishing fitness for purpose.
Publisher: American Psychological Association (APA)
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1037/PAS0000581
Abstract: Conflicted parental separation is associated with escalating risks to wellbeing and safety for all family members. The Family Law DOORS (FL-DOORS, Detection Of Overall Risk Screen) is a three-part framework designed to assist frontline workers to identify, evaluate, and respond to these risks in separated families. The FL-DOORS system includes a 10-domain parent self-report screening measure, covering child and parent wellbeing, cultural and social risks, and safety risks experienced by and initiated by each parent. A first validation study of this screen was conducted with the first 660 separated parents to complete the measure at a frontline community agency, and found robust psychometric properties (McIntosh, Wells, & Lee, 2016). This paper presents a revalidation study of FL-DOORS screening measure with a new cohort of 5,429 separated parents, including 1,642 pairs. Our aim was to evaluate whether FL-DOORS was fit for the purpose of indicating a range of safety and wellbeing risks in separated families. We repeated internal scale reliability and concurrent and external criterion validity analyses. Original subscales were largely confirmed, and validity analyses were extended through a Multi-Trait Multi-Method (MTMM) approach. In this second larger cohort, the FL-DOORS screen was again found fit-for-purpose as an indicator of domestic violence and wellbeing risks in separated families. (PsycINFO Database Record
When choice in retirement decisions is missing: Qualitative and quantitative findings of impact on well‐being
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-11-2007
Recruitment for a Panel Study of Australian Retirees
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2003
Abstract: Studies of change flowing from important life-course transitions such as retirement are best conducted using panel designs that allow change to be tracked at an in idual level. However, for many life-course transitions, s le recruitment is especially difficult because no s ling frames exist for what are relatively rare and nonenumerated populations. This article outlines the difficulties encountered and strategies adopted in obtaining a s le of older Australian workers who were about to retire. It explores the fieldwork problems encountered and the effectiveness of alternative recruitment strategies in meeting core s ling goals. Recruitment strategies are evaluated in terms of their cost, efficiency, impact on data quality, and ability to recruit difficult-to-find subtypes of retirees. The experience of this research team is provided to offer guidance and information for other teams as they seek to recruit s les for retirement studies or for other studies of rare and nonenumerated populations.
Holocaust survivors’ perspectives on using community aged care and support services
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 25-09-2019
DOI: 10.1017/S0144686X1900093X
Abstract: The extant literature on Jewish Holocaust survivors’ experiences of receiving aged care services typically focuses on the risk that formal care settings may reactivate traumatic memories. Absent from previous research have been the viewpoints of older survivors themselves regarding their aged care experiences. An interpretive phenomenological approach was used to investigate Jewish Holocaust survivors’ lived experience of using community aged care services. Thirteen in-depth interviews were conducted and analysed using thematic analysis. The credibility of the findings was ensured by methodological triangulation and peer debriefing. Four major themes emerged from the analysis: wanting carers to do their job well being supported to maintain autonomy having a good relationship with the carer and being understood as an in idual. Although Holocaust survivors described the lived experience of using community aged care services in terms of universal themes similar to those identified with other groups of care recipients, the data revealed that this experience is intertwined with in idual earlier-life traumatic experiences. This study has implications for training age care staff who work with Holocaust survivors and older trauma survivors from other refugee backgrounds.
Enabling independence: restorative approaches to home care provision for frail older adults
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 05-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-2524.2008.00809.X
Abstract: This study reviews the 'real world' potential (i.e. efficacy and effectiveness) of restorative approaches towards home care for frail older adults. Such approaches aim to go beyond traditional home care goals of 'maintenance' and 'support' towards improvements in functional status and quality of life. Our review of the literature included searches of health and gerontology databases as well as 'grey literature' across Australia, the UK and the USA. We provide an initial overview of the efficacy of a range of single component restorative interventions, including occupational therapy, physical therapy, health education and social rehabilitation. In order to answer questions about the overall efficacy and cost-effectiveness of restorative home care provision, we also review the nature of in-house programmes across the three nations as well as the evidence base for such programmes, particularly when they have been compared to home care 'as usual'. A range of positive outcomes has emerged, including improved quality of life and functional status and reduced costs associated with a reduction in the ongoing use of home care services postintervention. Questions remain about which components are most beneficial, which clients are likely to receive the greatest benefit, and the appropriate intensity and duration of such interventions.
Effects of Pet Ownership on the Health and Well‐being of Older People
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-2000
A Retrospective Cohort Study of Women and Men Living with HIV, Attending an HIV Clinic in Australia
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 11-2022
Empirical aspects of record linkage across multiple data sets using statistical linkage keys: the experience of the PIAC cohort study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-02-2010
Client Outcomes in Case Managed Care: Who Benefits Most?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 05-1999
Characteristics and effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy for older adults living in residential care: a systematic review
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-11-2019
DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2019.1686457
Abstract: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression and anxiety for older adults living in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) needs to accommodate the care needs of residents and the circumstances of RACFs. This systematic review examines the delivery and content characteristics of these interventions, in relation to participant satisfaction, staff appraisal, uptake rate, attrition rate, and treatment effectiveness. Such a review could provide important information for the development of future CBT-based interventions. Studies that examined the application of CBT for depression or anxiety in RACFs were identified by systematically searching a number of relevant databases. Reference lists of all included studies were examined, and citation searches on the Web of Science were conducted. Two independent reviewers were involved in screening articles and in extracting data and assessing methodological quality of the selected studies. Across the 18 studies included in this review, the most common therapeutic strategy was pleasant activities scheduling. Studies varied on treatment duration (2-24 weeks), number of sessions (6-24), and length of sessions (10-120 min). Residents and staff members were satisfied with the CBT interventions. The average uptake rate was 72.9%. The average attrition rate was 19.9%. Statistically significant results were reported in 8 of the 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In these eight RCTs, CBT was characterized by psychoeducation, behavioral activation, and problem-solving techniques further, the therapists in six of these studies had training in psychology. CBT interventions for depression and anxiety are acceptable to RACF residents and judged positively by staff members. Effective studies differed from non-effective studies on content and training characteristics, but not on other delivery features.
Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Pain Management in Residential Aged Care: a Pre-Post-Test Study
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 14-12-2017
DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2017.1399189
Abstract: The project aimed to evaluate a pain management program (PMP) using non-pharmacological approaches at five residential aged care facilities (RACFs) in Australia. The PMP involved a physiotherapist implementing four sessions per week of treatments (massage therapy, TENS, exercises and stretching, or combinations of these). Ninety-five participants were recruited (average age, 83 years SD = 7.6 38% men, 62% women 56% with dementia). Sessions lasted approximately 10 minutes, and residents' levels of pain were recorded using a 5-point scale before and after each treatment. The intervention period for each participant was the first consecutive 8 weeks in which they received the intervention. Data analyses showed: (1) a small but statistically significant decrease in the number of as required (PRN) medications and (2) a decrease in average pain ratings from pre-session to post-session from 2.4 (some to moderate pain) to 1.1 (a little pain). Notably, residents with dementia received lower pain ratings than those without. Non-pharmacological approaches to pain in residential care settings are effective, especially when two or more are combined. Staff working in residential care settings should rely on best practice to recognise pain in residents with dementia. Non-pharmacological interventions may be effective in reducing pain and reliance on PRN medications in residential care settings, especially when two or more are used. Staff working in residential aged care settings should be provided with training in pain assessment and management, with particular attention to residents with dementia.
Developing a comprehensive approach to risk management of musculoskeletal disorders in non-nursing health care sector employees
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.APERGO.2014.05.016
Abstract: This study of selected jobs in the health care sector explored a range of physical and psychosocial factors to identify those that most strongly predicted work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSD) risk. A self-report survey was used to collect data on physical and psychosocial risk factors from employees in three health care organisations in Victoria, Australia. Multivariate analyses demonstrated the importance of both psychosocial and physical hazards in predicting WMSD risk and provides evidence for risk management of WMSDs to incorporate a more comprehensive and integrated approach. Use of a risk management toolkit is recommended to address WMSD risk in the workplace.
Long-term effects of a memory group intervention reported by older adults
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 14-11-2020
DOI: 10.1080/09602011.2018.1544570
Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine older adults' experiences of change following a group memory intervention, the La Trobe and Caulfield Hospital (LaTCH) Memory Group programme. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 30 in iduals. Participants were healthy older adults and older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who had participated in the memory group five years previously. Transcripts were analysed for emergent themes in a workshop, using the Most Significant Change technique. The focus group derived four major themes relating to participants' experiences of change. Particularly noteworthy were themes describing a process of acceptance and normalising of memory difficulties in older age, as well as enhancement of coping and self-efficacy. The results highlight the importance of group support for older adults with and without objective memory impairment. Memory groups may use the group format to full advantage by (a) enhancing participants' experiences of universality to alleviate distress and promote coping, and (b) developing group norms to promote positive ageing, encompassing enhanced acceptance and self-efficacy.
Psychometric testing of the Older Patients in Acute Care Survey (OPACS) in Australian final year nursing students
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 06-02-2019
DOI: 10.1002/NOP2.238
MAXCOG—Maximizing Cognition: A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Efficacy of Goal-Oriented Cognitive Rehabilitation for People with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Early Alzheimer Disease
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAGP.2016.11.008
Abstract: To review the efficacy of a home-based four-session in idualized face-to-face cognitive rehabilitation (MAXCOG) intervention for clients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early dementia and their close supporters. Randomized controlled trial comparing the intervention group (MAXCOG) with treatment as usual (control). A total of 55 client-supporter dyads were enrolled in the study and 40 completed 25 client-supporter dyads completed MAXCOG and 15 completed treatment as usual. Both MAXCOG and control groups included more MCI cases than dementia (22 versus 3 and 12 versus 3, respectively). Four weekly in idual sessions of MAXCOG consisting of personalized interventions to address in idually relevant goals, supported by the provision of the MAXCOG information resource. The primary outcomes were goal performance and satisfaction, assessed using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM). Questionnaires assessing mood, illness adjustment, quality of life, and carer burden were also administered. The intervention group displayed significantly higher performance and satisfaction with primary goals on the COPM post-intervention than the control group, using a per-protocol analysis. The MAXCOG intervention is effective in improving goal performance and satisfaction in clients with MCI and early dementia.
Australasian Journal on Ageing Editorial: Book Award, 2022
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2023
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.13181
To continue, modify or relinquish driving: Findings from a longitudinal study of healthy ageing
Publisher: S. Karger AG
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1159/000111489
Abstract: i Background: /i The number and proportion of drivers among people entering later life continues to rise. More information on patterns of driving for older adults is required to improve service provision and traffic planning. i Objectives: /i To map the changes in driving status for a s le of drivers aged 65 years or older over the period 1994–2000, and to identify factors associated with older people continuing, modifying or relinquishing their status as drivers. i Methods: /i The 752 participants were drawn from the Melbourne Longitudinal Studies on Healthy Ageing (MELSHA) program, a longitudinal study of people aged 65 years and older living in the community. Participants were interviewed or contacted for follow-up in 1994, 1996, 1998 and 2000 on a range of topics including their health, functional independence and driving status. i Results: /i Although the number of recent drivers was smaller as participants died or were admitted to nursing homes over the 6-year data collection period, relatively few participants relinquished driving while remaining in the community. Many drivers reported modifying their driving habits over time, including decisions to restrict their driving to their local area during daylight only. Relationships were explored between driving status and the key variables of age, gender, marital status, instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) independence and self-rated measures of income, health, eyesight and hearing. Multivariate analyses indicated that drivers were more likely to modify their driving habits if they were older, dependent in IADL, and rated their eyesight as poor. Similar factors predicted relinquishing driving, but in addition, women were three times more likely to relinquish driving than men (even when health and disability were taken into account) and people who rated their incomes as ‘comfortable’ were more likely to relinquish driving than those with lower incomes. i Conclusions: /i This study confirmed previous evidence that older drivers self-regulate by modifying their driving behavior as they age. However, since few drivers voluntarily relinquish driving, further research is required to identify ways of supporting older drivers to continue to drive safely.
Factors associated with nursing students’ attitudes toward older people: A scoping review
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-12-2023
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