Soundscape Awareness Intervention Reduced Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Nursing Home Residents With Dementia: A Cluster-Randomized Trial With MoSART+

ObjectivesAuditory environments as perceived by an individual, also called soundscapes, are often suboptimal for nursing home residents. Poor soundscapes have been associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS). We evaluated the effect of the Mobile Soundscape Appraisal and Recording Technology sound awareness intervention (MoSART+) on NPS in nursing home residents with dementia.DesignA 15-month, stepped-wedge, cluster-randomized trial. Every 3 months, a nursing home switched from care as usual to the use of the intervention.InterventionThe 3-month MoSART+ intervention involved ambassador training, staff performing sound measurements with the MoSART application, meetings, and implementation of microinterventions. The goal was to raise awareness about soundscapes and their influence on residents.Setting and participantsWe included 110 residents with dementia in 5 Dutch nursing homes. Exclusion criteria were palliative sedation and deafness.MethodsThe primary outcome was NPS severity measured with the Neuropsychiatric Inventory–Nursing Home version (NPI-NH) by the resident’s primary nurse. Secondary outcomes were quality of life (QUALIDEM), psychotropic drug use (ATC), staff workload (workload questionnaire), and staff job satisfaction (Maastricht Questionnaire of Job Satisfaction).ResultsThe mean age of the residents (n = 97) at enrollment was 86.5 ± 6.7 years, and 76 were female (76.8%). The mean NPI-NH score was 17.5 ± 17.3. One nursing home did not implement the intervention because of staff shortages. Intention-to-treat analysis showed a clinically relevant reduction in NPS between the study groups (?8.0, 95% CI –11.7, ?2.6). There was no clear effect on quality of life [odds ratio (OR) 2.8, 95% CI –0.7, 6.3], psychotropic drug use (1.2, 95% CI 0.9, 1.7), staff workload (?0.3, 95% CI –0.3, 0.8), or staff job satisfaction (?0.2, 95% CI –1.2, 0.7).Conclusions and ImplicationsMoSART+ empowered staff to adapt the local soundscape, and the intervention effectively reduced staff-reported levels of NPS in nursing home residents with dementia. Nursing homes should consider implementing interventions to improve the soundscape.     

A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Digital Adaptation of the WHELD Person-Centered Nursing Home Training Program

ObjectiveDigital approaches to delivering person-centered care training to nursing home staff have the potential to enable widespread affordable implementation, but there is very limited evidence and no randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating digital training in the nursing home setting. The objective was to evaluate a digital person-centered care training intervention in a robust RCT.DesignWe conducted a 2-month cluster RCT in 16 nursing homes in the United Kingdom, randomized equally to receive a digitally adapted version of the WHELD person-centered care home training program with virtual coaching compared to the digital training program alone.Setting and ParticipantsThe study was conducted in UK nursing homes. There were 175 participants (45 nursing home staff and 130 residents with dementia).MethodsThe key outcomes were the well-being and quality of life (QoL) of residents with dementia and the attitudes and knowledge of nursing home staff.ResultsThere were significant benefits in well-being (t = 2.76, P = .007) and engagement in positive activities (t = 2.34, P = .02) for residents with dementia and in attitudes (t = 3.49, P = .001), including hope (t = 2.62, P = .013) and personhood (t = 2.26, P = .029), for staff in the group receiving digital eWHELD with virtual coaching compared to the group receiving digital learning alone. There was no improvement in staff knowledge about dementia.Conclusion and ImplicationsThe study provides encouraging initial clinical trial evidence that a digital version of the WHELD program supported by virtual coaching confers significant benefits for care staff and residents with dementia. Evidence-based digital interventions with remote coaching may also have particular utility in supporting institutional recovery of nursing homes from the COVID-19 pandemic.     

Management of Chronic Pain in Long-Term Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ObjectivesPain, a complex subjective experience, is common in care home residents. Despite advances in pain management, optimal pain control remains a challenge. In this updated systematic review, we examined effectiveness of interventions for treating chronic pain in care home residents.DesignA Cochrane-style systematic review and meta-analysis using PRISMA guidelines.Setting and ParticipantsRandomized and nonrandomized controlled trials and intervention studies included care home residents aged ≥60 years receiving interventions to reduce chronic pain.MethodsSix databases were searched to identify relevant studies. After duplicate removal, articles were screened by title and abstract. Full-text articles were reviewed and included if they implemented a pain management intervention and measured pain with a standardized quantitative pain scale. Meta-analyses calculated standardized mean differences (SMDs) using random-effect models. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias Tool 2.0.ResultsWe included 42 trials in the meta-analysis and described 13 more studies narratively. Studies included 26 nondrug alternative treatments, 8 education interventions, 7 system modifications, 3 nonanalgesic drug treatments, 2 analgesic treatments, and 9 combined interventions. Pooled results at trial completion revealed that, except for nonanalgesic drugs and health system modification interventions, all interventions were at least moderately effective in reducing pain. Analgesic treatments (SMD ?0.80; 95% CI ?1.47 to ?0.12; P = .02) showed the greatest treatment effect, followed by nondrug alternative treatments (SMD ?0.70; 95% CI ?0.95 to ?0.45; P < .001), combined interventions (SMD ?0.37; 95% CI ?0.60 to ?0.13; P = .002), and education interventions (SMD ?0.31; 95% CI ?0.48 to ?0.15; P < .001).Conclusions and ImplicationsOur findings suggest that analgesic drugs and nondrug alternative pain management strategies are the most effective in reducing pain among care home residents. Clinicians should also consider implementing nondrug alternative therapies in care homes, rather than relying solely on analgesic drug options.     

Pragmatic Trial of Personalized Music for Agitation and Antipsychotic Use in Nursing Home Residents With Dementia

ObjectiveTo test the effect of a personalized music intervention on agitated behaviors and medication use among long-stay nursing home residents with dementia.DesignPragmatic, cluster-randomized controlled trial of a personalized music intervention. Staff in intervention facilities identified residents' early music preferences and offered music at early signs of agitation or when disruptive behaviors typically occur. Usual care in control facilities may include ambient or group music.Setting and ParticipantsThe study was conducted between June 2019 and February 2020 at 54 nursing homes (27 intervention and 27 control) in 10 states owned by 4 corporations.MethodsFour-month outcomes were measured for each resident. The primary outcome was frequency of agitated behaviors using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory. Secondary outcomes included frequency of agitated behaviors reported in the Minimum Data Set and the proportion of residents using antipsychotic, antidepressant, or antianxiety medications.ResultsThe study included 976 residents with dementia [483 treatment and 493 control; mean age = 80.3 years (SD 12.3), 69% female, 25% African American]. CMAI scores were not significantly different (treatment: 50.67, SE 1.94; control: 49.34, SE 1.68) [average marginal effect (AME) 1.33, SE 1.38, 95% CI ?1.37 to 4.03]. Minimum Data Set–based behavior scores were also not significantly different (treatment: 0.35, SE 0.13; control: 0.46, SE 0.11) (AME –0.11, SE 0.10, 95% CI ?0.30 to 0.08). Fewer residents in intervention facilities used antipsychotics in the past week compared with controls (treatment: 26.2, SE 1.4; control: 29.6, SE 1.3) (AME –3.61, SE 1.85, 95% CI ?7.22 to 0.00), but neither this nor other measures of psychotropic drug use were statistically significant.Conclusions and ImplicationsPersonalized music was not significantly effective in reducing agitated behaviors or psychotropic drug use among long-stay residents with dementia. Barriers to full implementation included engaging frontline nursing staff and identifying resident's preferred music.     

Measuring Self-Efficacy and Attitudes for Providing Mouth Care in Nursing Homes

ObjectivesMouth care is increasingly recognized as an important component of care in nursing homes (NHs), yet is known to be deficient. To promote quality improvement and inform research efforts, it is necessary to have valid measures of staff self-efficacy and attitudes to provide mouth care.DesignA self-administered questionnaire completed by NH staff, information about the NH obtained from the administrator, and oral hygiene assessments of NH residents.Setting and ParticipantsA total of 434 staff in 14 NHs in North Carolina who were participating in a cluster randomized pragmatic trial of Mouth Care Without a Battle (MCWB).MethodsStaff in MCWB homes completed the questionnaire at baseline; staff in control homes completed it at 2-year follow-up. The 35-item questionnaire used new items and those from previous measures, many of which were modified for the NH setting. Factorial, construct, and criterion validity were assessed.ResultsExploratory factor analysis identified a 3-factor 11-item self-efficacy scale (promoting oral hygiene, providing mouth care, obtaining cooperation) named “Self-Efficacy for Providing Mouth Care” (SE-PMC), and a 2-factor 11-item attitudes scale (care of residents' teeth, care of own teeth), named Attitudes for Providing Mouth Care (A-PMC). Scores varied significantly across NHs and differentiated them based on profit status, age, and, for the A-PMC, NH size. Scores also differentiated among staff based on age and, for the SE-PMC, years of experience. In NHs where staff scored more highly, residents featured better oral hygiene (P < .001).Conclusions and ImplicationsThe SE-PMC and A-PMC are valid, parsimonious, and useful measures for quality improvement and research to improve mouth care in NHs that can be used jointly or individually. Preliminary evidence suggests that these scales may be associated with resident-level plaque and gingival hygiene, making them useful tools to assess promotion of mouth care.     

Effect of a Video-Assisted Advance Care Planning Intervention on End-of-Life Health Care Transitions Among Long-Stay Nursing Home Residents

ObjectiveTo determine the relationship between an advance care planning (ACP) video intervention, Pragmatic Trial of Video Education in Nursing Homes (PROVEN), and end-of-life health care transitions among long-stay nursing home residents with advanced illness.DesignPragmatic cluster randomized clinical trial. Five ACP videos were available on tablets or online at intervention facilities. PROVEN champions employed by nursing homes (usually social workers) were directed to offer residents (or their proxies) ≥1 video under certain circumstances. Control facilities employed usual ACP practices.Setting and ParticipantsPROVEN occurred from February 2016 to May 2019 in 360 nursing homes (119 intervention, 241 control) owned by 2 health care systems. This post hoc study of PROVEN data analyzed long-stay residents ≥65 years who died during the trial who had either advanced dementia or cardiopulmonary disease (advanced illness). We required an observation time ≥90 days before death. The analytic sample included 923 and 1925 advanced illness decedents in intervention and control arms; respectively.MethodsOutcomes included the proportion of residents with 1 or more hospital transfer (ie, hospitalization, emergency department use, or observation stay), multiple (≥3) hospital transfers during the last 90 days of life, and late transitions (ie, hospital transfer during the last 3 days or hospice admission on the last day of life).ResultsHospital transfers in the last 90 days of life among decedents with advanced illness were significantly lower in the intervention vs control arm (proportion difference = ?1.7%, 95% CI –3.2%, ?0.1%). The proportion of decedents with multiple hospital transfers and late transitions did not differ between the trial arms.Conclusions and ImplicationsVideo-assisted ACP was modestly associated with reduced hospital transfers in the last 90 days of life among nursing home residents with advanced illness. The intervention was not significantly associated with late health care transitions and multiple hospital transfers.     

Optimizing Prescribing of Antipsychotics in Long-Term Care (OPAL): A Stepped-Wedge Trial

BackgroundInappropriate antipsychotic prescribing is a key quality indicator by which clinical outcomes might be monitored and improved in long-term care (LTC), but limited evidence exists on the most effective strategies for reducing inappropriate antipsychotic use.ObjectivesThe objective of the study was to evaluate a multicomponent approach to reduce inappropriate prescribing of antipsychotics in LTC.DesignA prospective, stepped-wedge study design was used to evaluate the effect of the intervention.Settings and participantsInterdisciplinary staff at 10 Canadian LTC facilities.MethodsThe intervention consisted of an educational in-service, provision of evidence-based tools to assess and monitor neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) in dementia, and monthly interprofessional team meetings. The primary outcome was the proportion of residents receiving an antipsychotic without a diagnosis of psychosis using a standardized antipsychotic quality indicator.ResultsThe weighted mean change in inappropriate antipsychotic prescribing rate from baseline to 12-month follow-up was −4.6% [standard deviation (SD) = 2.8%, P < .0001], representing a 16.1% (SD = 17.0) relative reduction. After adjusting for site, the odds ratio for the inappropriate antipsychotic prescribing quality indicator at 12 months compared to baseline was 0.73 (95% confidence interval = 0.48-0.94; chi-square = 6.59; P = .01). There were no significant changes in related quality indicators, including falls, restraint use, or behavioral symptoms.Conclusions and implicationsThis multicomponent intervention was effective in reducing inappropriate antipsychotic prescribing in LTC without adversely affecting other domains related to quality of care, and offers a practical means by which to improve the care of older adults with dementia in LTC.     

Relationship-Centered Mealtime Training Program Demonstrates Efficacy to Improve the Dining Environment in Long-Term Care

ObjectivesMealtimes in residential care tend to be task-focused rather than relationship-centered, impacting resident quality of life. CHOICE+ uses participatory approaches to make mealtimes more relationship-centered. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of the 12-month external-facilitated implementation of CHOICE+ to improve the mealtime environment.DesignModified stepped-wedge time series design.Setting and ParticipantsDining rooms in 3 homes were entered into the intervention every 4 months; total study length was 20 months. Pre- and postintervention evaluations were attained from residents (n = 27, n = 19) and staff (n = 39, n = 29) respectively.MethodsFive meals in each home were observed by a blinded trained assessor every 4 months using the Mealtime Scan+ to assess physical, social, and relationship-centered practices and overall quality of the dining environment. Repeated measures analysis determined change in mealtime environment scores. The Team member Mealtime Experience Questionnaire and 5 questions from the InterRAI Quality of Life Questionnaire for residents and family were administered at pre- and postintervention.ResultsThere were significant increases in physical and social environments, relationship-centered care practices, and overall quality of the mealtime environment during the intervention period at all sites (all P < .001) and significant site by intervention interactions for physical (P = .01) and relationship-centered care (P = .03). Statistically significant site differences were noted for relationship-centered care practices (P < .001) and overall quality of the dining environment (P < .002). There was no significant difference in staff and resident/family pre-/postintervention questionnaire results.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe external facilitated model of CHOICE+ resulted in significant improvements in the mealtime environment. Although site context impacted implementation, this study demonstrates that mealtimes can be improved even in homes that have challenges. Future work should determine impact of these improvements on other outcomes such as resident quality of life, using more specific measures.     

Staff Training Interventions to Improve End-of-Life Care of Nursing Home Residents: A Systematic Review

ObjectivesThe aim was to review evidence from all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using palliative care education or staff training as an intervention to improve nursing home residents' quality of life (QOL) or quality of dying (QOD) or to reduce burdensome hospitalizations.DesignA systematic review with a narrative summary.Setting and ParticipantsResidents in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.MethodsWe searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar, references of known articles, previous reviews, and recent volumes of key journals. RCTs were included in the review. Methodologic quality was assessed.ResultsThe search yielded 932 articles after removing the duplicates. Of them, 16 cluster RCTs fulfilled inclusion criteria for analysis. There was a great variety in the interventions with respect to learning methods, intensity, complexity, and length of staff training. Most interventions featured other elements besides staff training. In the 6 high-quality trials, only 1 showed a reduction in hospitalizations, whereas among 6 moderate-quality trials 2 suggested a reduction in hospitalizations. None of the high-quality trials showed effects on residents' QOL or QOD. Staff reported an improved QOD in 1 moderate-quality trial.Conclusions and ImplicationsIrrespective of the means of staff training, there were surprisingly few effects of education on residents' QOL, QOD, or burdensome hospitalizations. Further studies are needed to explore the reasons behind these findings.     

Physician Availability in Long-Term Care and Resident Hospital Transfer: A Retrospective Cohort Study

ObjectivesTo investigate whether same-day physician access in long-term care homes reduces resident emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations.DesignRetrospective cohort study.Setting and participants161 long-term care homes in Ontario, Canada, and 20,624 residents living in those homes.MethodsWe administered a survey to Ontario long-term care homes from March to May 2017 to collect their typical wait time for a physician visit. We linked the survey to administrative databases to capture other long-term care home characteristics, resident characteristics, hospitalizations, and ED visits. We defined a cohort of residents living in survey-respondent homes between January and May 2017 and followed each resident for 6 months or until discharge or death.We estimated negative binomial regression models on counts of hospitalizations and ED visits with random intercepts for long-term care homes. We controlled for residents' sociodemographic and illness characteristics, long-term care home size, chain status, rurality, and nurse practitioner access.ResultsFifty-two homes (32%) reported same-day physician access. Among residents of homes with same-day physician access, 9% had a hospitalization and 20% had an ED visit during follow-up. In contrast, among residents in homes without same-day access, 12% were hospitalized and 22% visited an ED.The adjusted hospitalization and ED rates among residents of homes with same-day physician access were 21% lower (rate ratio = 0.79, P = .02) and 14% lower (rate ratio = 0.86, P = .07), respectively, than residents of other homes. We estimate that nearly 1 in 6 resident hospitalizations could be prevented if all long-term care homes had same-day physician access.Conclusions and implicationsResidents of long-term care homes with same-day physician access experience lower hospitalization and ED visit rates than residents in homes that wait longer for physicians, even after adjusting for important resident and home characteristics. Improved on-demand access to physicians has the potential to reduce hospital transfer rates.     

The Effects of Humor Therapy on Nursing Home Residents Measured Using Observational Methods: The SMILE Cluster Randomized Trial

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effects of humor therapy assessed using observational methods on agitation, engagement, positive behaviors, affect, and contentment.DesignSingle-blind cluster randomized controlled trial.SettingA total of 35 Sydney nursing homes.ParticipantsAll eligible residents within geographically defined areas within each nursing home were invited to participate.InterventionProfessional “ElderClowns” provided 9 to 12 weekly humor therapy sessions, augmented by resident engagement by trained staff “LaughterBosses.” Controls received usual care.MeasurementsThe Behavior Engagement Affect Measure (BEAM) touchpad observational tool was used to capture real-time behavioral data. The tool assesses the duration in seconds of agitation, positive behavior toward others, engagement, and affect (angry, anxious, happy, neutral, sad).ResultsSeventeen nursing homes (189 residents) received the intervention and 18 homes (209 residents) received usual care. Over 26 weeks, in comparison with controls, the humor therapy group decreased in duration of high agitation (effect size = 0.168 and 0.129 at 13 and 26 weeks, respectively) and increased in duration of happiness (effect size = 0.4 and 0.236 at 13 and 26 weeks, respectively).ConclusionWe confirmed that humor therapy decreases agitation and also showed that it increases happiness. Researchers may consider evaluating impacts of nonpharmaceutical interventions on positive outcomes. Computer-assisted observational measures should be considered, particularly for residents with dementia and when the reliability of staff is uncertain.     

Implementation of Goals of Care Communication Innovation Among Nursing Homes: A Multiple Case Study Design

ObjectiveNursing homes (NHs) provide care to residents with serious illness and related complex health care needs. As such, discussions about end-of-life care between NH staff and residents and families are necessary to ensure residents receive care consistent with their goals. Interventions such as video decision aids have been developed to promote discussions and improve advance care planning, but few studies have examined how NH characteristics may relate to the implementation of these interventions; such information might lead toward more use of successful interventions. The purpose of this study is to understand NH characteristics that are associated with the implementation of the Goals of Care (GOC) intervention, which combined a video decision aid with a structured discussion to guide decision-making in advanced dementia.DesignA multiple case study.Setting and ParticipantsStaff surveys were conducted to examine factors related to implementation effectiveness in 11 NHs in North Carolina that participated in the GOC trial.MethodsQuestions measured the dependent variable of implementation effectiveness: the consistency and quality of use of the GOC intervention. NH organizational characteristics were measured using publicly available data and an administrator survey. The analysis consisted of pattern matching logic.ResultsHigh management support aligned with implementation effectiveness within NHs. In addition, the within case pattern analysis indicated additional characteristics related to implementation effectiveness. Facility size, Medicare beds, residents’ racial composition, and star rating were related to implementation effectiveness across 6 of the 11 NHs. NH financial resources, such as size and number of Medicare beds, may be important factors for successful implementation.Conclusion and ImplicationsNHs seeking to implement advance care planning interventions should focus on within and across NH differences, such as adequate management and financial support prior to implementation to increase the likelihood of implementation effectiveness.     

Making the Most of Mealtimes (M3): Association Between Relationship-Centered Care Practices,and Number of Staff and Residents at Mealtimes in Canadian Long-Term Care Homes

ObjectivesTo determine if (1) number of staff or residents, when considering home-level factors and presence of family/volunteers, are associated with relationship-centered care practices at mealtimes in general and dementia care units in long-term care (LTC); and (2) the association between number of staff and relationship-centered care is moderated by number of residents and family/volunteers, profit status or chain affiliation.DesignSecondary analysis of the Making the Most of Mealtimes (M3) cross-sectional multisite study.Setting and ParticipantsThirty-two Canadian LTC homes (Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, and New Brunswick) and 639 residents were recruited. Eighty-two units were included, with 58 being general and 24 being dementia care units.MethodsTrained research coordinators completed the Mealtime Scan (MTS) for LTC at 4 to 6 mealtimes in each unit to determine number of staff, residents, and family or volunteers present. Relationship-centered care was assessed using the Mealtime Relational Care Checklist. The director of care or food services manager completed a home survey describing home sector and chain affiliation. Multivariable analyses were stratified by type of unit.ResultsIn general care units, the number of residents was negatively (P = .009), and number of staff positively (P < .001) associated with relationship-centered care (F_9,48 = 5.48, P < .001). For dementia care units, the associations were nonsignificant (F_5,18 = 2.74, P = .05). The association between staffing and relationship-centered care was not moderated by any variables in either general or dementia care units.Conclusion and ImplicationsNumber of staff in general care units may increase relationship-centered care at mealtimes in LTC. Number of residents or staff did not significantly affect relationship-centered care in dementia care units, suggesting that other factors such as additional training may better explain relationship-centered care in these units. Mandating minimum staffing and additional training at the federal level should be considered to ensure that staff have the capacity to deliver relationship-centered care at mealtimes, which is considered a best practice.     

The Prevalence,Incidence, and Correlates of Fecal Incontinence Among Older People Residing in Care Homes: A Systematic Review

ObjectiveOlder people resident in care homes often rely on staff for support relating to their activities of daily living, including intimate care such as continence care. Managing fecal incontinence can be challenging for both residents and care staff. We conducted this review to describe the prevalence, incidence, and correlates of fecal incontinence among care home residents.DesignSystematic literature review.Setting and participantsOlder care home residents (both nursing and residential care) aged 60 years and older.MeasuresWe defined double incontinence as the presence of fecal plus urinary incontinence, isolated fecal incontinence as fecal incontinence with no urinary incontinence, and all fecal incontinence as anyone with fecal incontinence (whether isolated or double). The CINAHL and MEDLINE databases were searched up to December 31, 2017, to retrieve all studies reporting the prevalence and/or incidence and correlates of fecal incontinence.ResultsWe identified 278 citations after removing duplicates, and 23 articles met the inclusion criteria. There were 12 high-quality studies, 5 medium-quality studies, and 6 low-quality studies. The medians for prevalence (as reported by the studies) of isolated fecal incontinence, double incontinence, and all fecal incontinence were 3.5% [interquartile range (IQR) = 2.8%], 47.1% (IQR = 32.1%), and 42.8% (IQR = 21.1%), respectively. The most frequently reported correlates of fecal incontinence were cognitive impairment, limited functional capacity, urinary incontinence, reduced mobility, advanced age, and diarrhea.Conclusions/ImplicationsFecal incontinence is prevalent among older people living in care homes. Correlates included impaired ability to undertake activities of daily living, reduced mobility, laxative use, and altered stool consistency (eg, constipation or diarrhea) which are potentially amenable to interventions to improve fecal incontinence.     

Health Care and Personal Care Needs Among Residents in Nursing Homes,Group Homes,and Congregate Housing in Japan: Why Does Transition Occur,and Where Can the Frail Elderly Establish a Permanent Residence?

ObjectivesJapan has had high rates of transition to nursing homes from other long term care facilities. It has been hypothesized that care transitions occur because a resident's condition deteriorates. The aim of the present study was to compare the health care and personal care needs of residents in nursing homes, group homes, and congregate housing in Japan.DesignThe present study was conducted using a cross-sectional study design.Setting/SubjectsThe present study included 70,519 elderly individuals from 5 types of residential facilities: care medical facilities (heavy medical care; n = 17,358), geriatric intermediate care facilities (rehabilitation aimed toward a discharge to home; n = 26,136), special nursing homes (permanent residence; n = 20,564), group homes (group living, n = 1454), and fee-based homes for the elderly (congregate housing; n = 5007).MeasurementsThe managing director at each facility provided information on the residents' health care and personal care needs, including activities of daily living (ADLs), level of required care, level of cognitive impairment, current disease treatment, and medical procedures.ResultsA multinomial logistic regression analysis demonstrated a significantly lower rate of medical procedures among the residents in special nursing homes compared with those in care medical facilities, geriatric intermediate care facilities, group homes, and fee-based homes for the elderly. The residents of special nursing homes also indicated a significantly lower level of required care than those in care medical facilities.ConclusionThe results of our study suggest that care transitions occur because of unavailable permanent residence option for people who suffer with medical deterioration. The national government should modify residential facilities by reorganizing several types of residential facilities into nursing homes that provide a place of permanent residence.     

The Effect of Advance Care Planning Intervention on Hospitalization Among Nursing Home Residents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of advance care planning (ACP) interventions on the hospitalization of nursing home residents.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Setting and ParticipantsNursing homes and nursing home residents.MethodsA literature search was systematically conducted in 6 electronic databases (Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, AgeLine, and the Psychology & Behavioral Sciences Collection), in addition to hand searches and reference list checking; the articles retrieved were those published from 1990 to November 2021. The eligible studies were randomized controlled trials, controlled trials, and pre-post intervention studies describing original data on the effect of ACP on hospitalization of nursing home residents; these studies had to be written in English. Two independent reviewers appraised the quality of the studies and extracted the relevant data using the Joanna Briggs Institute abstraction form and critical appraisal tools. A study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022301648).ResultsThe initial search yielded 744 studies. Nine studies involving a total of 57,180 residents were included in the review. The findings showed that the ACP reduced the likelihood of hospitalization [relative risk (RR) 0.54, 95% CI 0.47-0.63; I² = 0%)], it had no effect on emergency department (ED) visits (RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.31-1.42; I² = 99), hospice enrollment (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.88-1.10; I² = 0%), mortality (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.68-1.00; I² = 4%), and satisfaction with care (standardized mean difference: ?0.04, 95% CI ?0.14 to ?0.06; I² = 0%).Conclusion and ImplicationsACP reduced hospitalizations but did not affect the secondary outcomes, namely, ED visits, hospice enrollment, mortality, and satisfaction with care. These findings suggest that policy makers should support the implementation of ACP programs in nursing homes. More robust studies are needed to determine the effects of ACP on ED visits, hospice enrollment, mortality, and satisfaction with care.     

Impact of a Multifaceted,Pharmacist-Led Intervention on Psychotropic Medication Use for Residents of Aged Care Facilities: A Parallel Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

ObjectiveTo investigate the effect of a multifaceted intervention on reduction in psychotropic medication use, falls, agitation, emergency department (ED) visits, and hospitalization in residential aged care facilities (RACFs).DesignParallel cluster randomized controlled trial. RACFs were randomized to the multifaceted intervention, Medication Management Consultancy (MMC) (n = 5) or control (n = 6) groups. MMC, comprising online education, medication audits, and resources on psychotropic medications and nonpharmacological strategies, educates RACF staff to help reduce the use of antipsychotic medication among RACF residents through a comprehensive understanding of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.Setting and ParticipantsA total of 439 residents from 11 RACFs in Western Australia.MethodsThe primary outcome was change in monthly total equivalent doses (mg) of antipsychotic, antidepressant, and benzodiazepine medication use over 12 months compared with a control group. Clinical outcomes included falls, restraints, agitation, ED visits, hospitalization, and knowledge of psychotropic medications among RACF staff at pre- and postintervention were measured. The duration of the intervention was 3 to 6 months. Data were collected at T0 (baseline), T1 (6 months), and T2 (12 months).ResultsThe MMC group showed a significant 44% reduction in antipsychotic use compared with the control group at T1 (incidence rate ratios [IRR], 0.56; 95% CI, 0.32–0.99; P = .048) and also significantly reduced the number of ED visits at T1 (IRR, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.06–0.35; P < .0005) and T2 (IRR, 0.04; 95% CI, 0.01–0.13; P < .0005). Staff knowledge about psychotropic medications improved significantly from T0 to T1 and from T0 to T2. Reduction in antidepressant use at either T1 or T2 and benzodiazepine use, compared with control, at T1 and T2 were not significantly different. Other clinical outcomes showed limited impact.Conclusion and ImplicationsThe MMC intervention reduced the use of antipsychotics and ED visits and improved staff knowledge in RACFs, which impacts the safety and quality of aged care in Australia.     

Efficacy and Generalizability of Falls Prevention Interventions in Nursing Homes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

ObjectivesTo determine the efficacy of fall intervention programs in nursing homes (NHs) and the generalizability of these interventions to people living with cognitive impairment and dementia.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis.Setting and ParticipantsNH residents (n = 30,057) living in NHs defined as residential facilities that provide 24-hours-a-day surveillance, personal care, and some clinical care for persons who are typically aged ≥65 years with multiple complex chronic health conditions.MethodsMeta-analysis of falls prevention interventions on number of falls, fallers, and recurrent fallers.ResultsThirty-six studies met inclusion criteria for the systematic review. Overall, fall prevention interventions reduced the number of falls [risk ratio (RR) = 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.60-0.88], fallers (RR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.72-0.89), and recurrent fallers (RR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.60-0.81). Subanalyses revealed that single interventions have a significant effect on reducing fallers (RR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.69-0.89) and recurrent fallers (RR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.52-0.70), whereas multiple interventions reduce fallers (RR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.39-0.97) and multifactorial interventions reduce number of falls (RR = 0.65, 95% CI = 0.45-0.94).Conclusions and ImplicationsExercise as a single intervention reduced the number of fallers and recurrent fallers by 36% and 41%, respectively, in people living in NHs. Other effective interventions included staff education and multiple and multifactorial interventions. However, more research on exercise including people with cognitive impairment and dementia is needed to improve the generalizability of these interventions to the typical NH resident.     

Trends in Antipsychotic and Mood Stabilizer Prescribing in Long-Term Care in the U.S.: 2011–2014

ObjectiveThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ National Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes focuses on but is not limited to long-term care (LTC) residents with dementia; the potential impact on residents with other diagnoses is unclear. We sought to determine whether resident subpopulations experienced changes in antipsychotic and mood stabilizer prescribing.DesignRepeated cross-sectional analysis of a 20% Medicare sample, 2011–2014.Setting and ParticipantFee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries with Part D coverage in LTC (n = 562,485) and a secondary analysis limited to persons with depression or bipolar disorder (n = 139,071).MethodsMain outcome was quarterly predicted probability of treatment with an antipsychotic or mood stabilizer.ResultsFrom 2011 to 2014, the adjusted predicted probability (APP) of antipsychotic treatment fell from 0.120 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.119–0.121] to 0.100 (95% CI 0.099–0.101; P < .001). Use decreased for all age, sex, and racial/ethnic groups; the decline was larger for persons with dementia (P < .001). The APP of mood stabilizer use grew from 0.140 (95% CI 0.139–0.141) to 0.185 (95% CI 0.184–0.186), growth slightly larger among persons without dementia (P < .001). Among persons with depression or bipolar disorder, the APP of antipsychotic treatment increased from 0.081 (95% CI 0.079–0.082) to 0.087 (95% CI 0.085–0.088; P < .001); APP of mood stabilizer treatment grew more, from 0.193 (95% CI 0.190–0.196) to 0.251 (0.248–0.253; P < .001). Quetiapine was the most commonly prescribed antipsychotic. The most widely prescribed mood stabilizer was gabapentin, prescribed to 70.5% of those who received a mood stabilizer by the end of 2014.Conclusions and ImplicationsThe likelihood of antipsychotic and mood stabilizer treatment did not decline for residents with depression or bipolar disorder, for whom such prescribing may be appropriate but who were not excluded from the Partnership's antipsychotic quality measure. Growth in mood stabilizer use was widespread, and largely driven by growth in gabapentin prescribing.