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Background Moderate to severe pain has been frequently reported in hospitalized older adults. Pain in hospitalized persons with dementia within the context of other common symptoms, functional decline, delirium, and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), has received little attention. Aims Describe the incidence of pain, the pharmacologic management of pain, and the association of pain with physical function, delirium, and BPSD in hospitalized persons with dementia. Design Descriptive, cross-sectional study. Setting Six medical units in three hospitals. Participants Baseline data from 299 hospitalized persons with dementia enrolled in the Family-centered Function-focused Care (Fam-FFC) cluster randomized trial. Methods Descriptive analyses of pain used the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) scale and the use of medication for pain management. Linear regression analyses tested relationships between pain and:1) physical function (Barthel Index), 2) delirium severity (Confusion Assessment Method Severity Short Form) and 3) BPSD severity (Neuropsychiatric Inventory- Questionnaire). Results The majority of the sample was female (61.9%), non-Hispanic (98%), and Black (53.2%), with a mean age of 81.58 (SD=8.54).Of the 299 patients, 166 (56%) received pain medication. Of the 108 individuals who demonstrated pain, 40% (n=43) did not receive pain medication. When controlling for age, gender, cognition, and comorbidities, pain was significantly associated with function, delirium severity, and BPSD severity. Conclusions Results suggest that pain may be undertreated in hospitalized persons with dementia, and should be considered upon admission to optimize function, decrease delirium, and prevent or decrease BPSD.

Background This study tested the impact of Function Focused Care for Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT) on: (1) care interactions between residents and direct care staff; and (2) behavior and psychological symptoms associated with dementia among residents. Design This was a randomized controlled trial. Setting A total of 59 assisted living facilities in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts participated. Participants The sample included 550 mostly White (98%), female (69%) residents with a mean age of 89.30 (standard deviation = 7.63) years. Intervention The four-step FFC-AL-EIT intervention was implemented by a function focused care nurse facilitator working with a facility champion over 12 months. The steps included: (1) environment and policy assessments; (2) education; (3) establishing resident function focused care service plans; and (4) mentoring and motivating. Measures Resident descriptive data (e.g., age, sex, education, and comorbidities), depression, agitation, resistiveness to care, and the quality of care interactions were obtained at baseline and 4 and 12 months. Treatment fidelity data included environment and policy assessments, performance of function focused care by staff, and service plan assessments. Results There was a significant positive treatment effect related to depression, agitation, resistiveness to care, and quality of care interactions with either less decline or some improvement in these behaviors and symptoms in the treatment versus control group. Conclusion The study provides some statistical support, which may not necessarily be clinically significant evidence, for psychosocial outcomes of residents and care interactions between staff and residents in assisted living settings.

Background and PurposeThe purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Knowledge of Person-Centered Behavioral Approaches for BPSD based on a Rasch analysis.MethodsThis study used baseline data from the Implementation of the Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (EIT-4-BPSD) clinical trial.ResultsA total 1,071 nurses completed the test. There was evidence of reliability (alpha coefficient of .99), construct validity with INFIT and OUTFIT statistics in the .6 to 1.4 range, and hypothesis testing with a significant correlation between the Knowledge of Person-Centered Behavioral Approaches for BPSD and positive care interactions.ConclusionsFuture use of the measure should include more challenging items to differentiate those very high in knowledge of person-centered behavioral approaches for BPSD.

An effective clinical research effort in nursing homes to address prevention and treatment of COVID-19 faced overwhelming challenges. Under the Health Care Systems Research Network-Older Americans Independence Centers AGING Initiative, a multidisciplinary Stakeholder Advisory Panel was convened to develop recommendations to improve the capability of the clinical research enterprise in US nursing homes. The Panel considered the nursing home as a setting for clinical trials, reviewed the current state of clinical trials in nursing homes, and ultimately developed recommendations for the establishment of a nursing home clinical trials research network that would be centrally supported and administered. This report summarizes the Panel's recommendations, which were developed in alignment with the following core principles: build on available research infrastructure where appropriate; leverage existing productive partnerships of researchers with groups of nursing homes and nursing home corporations; encompass both efficacy and effectiveness clinical trials; be responsive to a broad range of stakeholders including nursing home residents and their care partners; be relevant to an expansive range of clinical and health care delivery research questions; be able to pivot as necessary to changing research priorities and circumstances; create a pathway for industry-sponsored research as appropriate; invest in strategies to increase diversity in study populations and the research workforce; and foster the development of the next generation of nursing home researchers.

To develop and test the psychometric properties of a shared decision-making tool: Childbirth Options, Information, and Person-Centered Explanation (CHOICEs).Multiphase instrument development study beginning with item development through a cross-sectional postpartum survey.The cross-sectional postpartum survey was distributed online through convenience and snowball sampling methods.We developed instrument items through an iterative process with key stakeholders. We evaluated reliability based on internal consistency and differential item functioning analysis. We evaluated validity on evidence of construct validity. We used criterion-related item mapping to evaluate whether the measure addressed the full spectrum of shared decision making related to maternity care.Surveys were completed by 1,171 participants. A Cronbach's α coefficient of .99 supported internal consistency reliability. Infit and outfit statistics that ranged from 0.92 to 1.55 supported item fit. Differential item functioning analysis showed that CHOICEs scores were invariant between different demographic groups. Significant positive correlations between scores on CHOICEs and the Mothers on Respect index (r = 0.75, p = .01) and the Mothers Autonomy in Decision-Making scale (r = 0.75, p = .01) supported criterion-related validity. Item mapping suggested more items were needed to capture the full spectrum of shared decision making.We recommend using CHOICEs to evaluate shared decision making in maternity care for research and quality improvement projects.

Background:The UMove Mobility Screen (UMove) was developed to help bedside nurses accurately assess patient’s mobility.Objectives:The purpose of this study was to assess reliability and validity of the UMove.Methods:Interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and alpha coefficient was completed to assess was based on internal consistency and inter-rater reliability. Construct validity was determined by ICC using two-way random model.Results:Among the 176 participants the mean age was 57 years (SD= 15), and 60% were men (N= 105). Internal consistency and inter-rater reliability were acceptable (alpha coefficient of .94 and an intraclass correlation of .98). There was evidence of construct validity with an intraclass correlation of .95 between the UMove and the standard therapists’ evaluation of patient functional mobility.Conclusion:There was evidence for reliability and validity of UMove. Future work should focus on the effectiveness of UMove on clinical outcomes.

The purpose of this study was to describe differences in pain, behavioral symptoms, quality of staff-resident interactions, participation in function focused care and physical activity among residents with and without cognitive impairment in assisted living. This was a secondary data analysis using baseline data from an ongoing trial testing Function Focused Care for Assisted Living using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT). A total of 550 residents were recruited from 59 communities. The average age of participants was 89.30 ( SD = 7.63), the majority were white (98%), female (69%), had evidence of cognitive impairment (75%), and 5.16 ( SD = 1.86) comorbidities. Those with cognitive impairment had more pain, were more sedentary and less likely to engage in function focused care activities. Addressing pain and implementing interventions for those with cognitive impairment to participate in function focused care may help optimize function and physical activity in assisted living residents.

The purpose of this study was to describe physical activity and function of older adults in assisted living communities and test the association between moderate and vigorous activity and falls. This study used baseline data from 393 participants from the first two cohorts in the Function-Focused Care in Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle study. The majority of participants were female (N = 276, 70%) and White (N = 383, 97%) with a mean age of 87 years (SD = 7). Controlling for age, cognition, gender, setting, and function, the time spent in moderate or vigorous levels of physical activity was associated with having a fall in the prior 4 months. Those who engaged in more moderate physical activity were 0.6% less likely to have a fall (OR = 0.994, Wald statistic = 5.54, p = .02), and those who engaged in more vigorous activity were 2% less likely to have a fall (OR = 0.980, Wald statistic = 3.88, p = .05).

Background and PurposeLimited literature exists regarding the psychometric properties of the Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Fatigue Short Form 8a. This study compared the psychometric properties of the 8a to the established PROMIS Fatigue Short Form 7a.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study of 31 older adults with joint pain. Equivalent forms reliability and a Rasch analysis explored reliability (equivalent forms, internal consistency), validity (unidimensionality, item INFIT/OUTFIT), and additional psychometrics (item mapping).ResultsThe measures were equivalent in measuring fatigue (r = 0.75, p < .001) with good internal consistency (α = .87−.92). Both were unidimensional. Even though the 8a had better fitting items, neither measure could differentiate low levels of fatigue.ConclusionThe 8a has comparable psychometric properties to the 7a in this population. Future work is needed in larger, more diverse samples.

Background Individuals who are resilient are more likely to engage in functional tasks and exercise post hip fracture. There may be a genetic predisposition to being resilient. Objectives This study tested the direct and indirect association of 10 candidate genes, age, cognition, gender, comorbidities, pain and social activity on resilience, function and exercise post hip fracture. Method This was a descriptive study including 172 community dwelling older adults. Measures included: age, gender, cognition (Modified Mini Mental Status Exam), comorbidities, social activities (self-report), DNA (GRM1, NTRK1, NTRK2, GNB3, NPY, SLC6A15. SLC6A4, BDNF, CR1TR1, FKBP5), pain (areas of pain and Numeric Rating Scale), function (Physical and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living; Lower Extremity Gains Score; Short Physical Performance Battery; Grip Strength) and exercise (Yale Physical Activity Scale). Results The majority of participants were Caucasian (93%), 50% were women and the average age was 81.09 (SD = 7.42). There were significant associations between resilience and single nucleotide polymorphisms from GRM1, NTRK1, NTRK2, GNB3, NPY and SLC6A15. Resilience, age, cognition, social activity, pain and genetic variability were directly and/or indirectly associated with exercise and/or function. Discussion This study highlights the importance of resilience for engagement in exercise and function after hip fracture and provides preliminary evidence for a genetic role for resilience.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to describe the incidence, pharmacologic management and impact of pain on function, agitation, and resistiveness to care among assisted living residents. DESIGN: This was a descriptive study. DATA SOURCES: Baseline data from 260 residents in the second cohort of the study, Dissemination and Implementation of Function Focused Care for Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT). REVIEW/ANALYSIS METHODS: Descriptive analyses for the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD), Visual Descriptor Scale (VDS), and use of medication for pain management and hypothesis testing using linear regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: The majority of the sample was female (71%) and white (96%) with a mean age of 87 (SD=7). Fifty-two out of the 260 residents (20%) reported pain based on either the PAINAD or the VDS. Out of the total 260 residents, 75 (29%) received pain medication. Twenty-two out of the 52 individuals (42%) reporting pain were not getting pain medication. Controlling for age, gender and cognition, the PAINAD was significantly associated with agitation, function, and resistiveness to care and the VDS was only associated with function. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of pain was low among participants based on the PAINAD or the VDS. Pain measured by the PAINAD was significantly associated with function, agitation and resistiveness to care. NURSING PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Pain assessments should include both objective and subjective measures and management of pain should be considered as it may help to optimize function and decrease behavioral symptoms among assisted living residents.

Objective To examine trends in 12-month postfracture residual disability, nursing home placement, and mortality among patients with a hip fracture between 1990 and 2011. Design Secondary analysis of 12-month outcomes from 3 cohort studies and control arms of 2 randomized controlled trials. Setting Original studies were conducted as part of the Baltimore Hip Studies (BHS). Participants Community-dwelling patients ≥65 years of age hospitalized for surgical repair of a nonpathologic hip fracture (N=988). Main Outcome Measures Twelve-month residual disability, mortality, and nursing home residency were examined in case-mix adjusted models by sex and study. Residual disability was calculated by subtracting prefracture scores of Lower Extremity Physical Activities of Daily Living from scores at 12 months postfracture. We also examined the proportion of individuals with a 12-month score higher than their prefracture score (residual disability>0). Results Only small improvements were seen in residual disability between 1990 and 2011. No significant differences were seen for men between BHS2 (enrollment 1990-1991; mean residual disability=3.1 activities; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.16-4.10) and BHS7 (enrollment 2006-2011; mean=3.1 activities; 95% CI, 2.41-3.82). In women, residual disability significantly improved from BHS2 (mean=3.5 activities; 95% CI, 2.95-3.99) to BHS3 (enrollment 1992-1995; mean=2.7 activities; 95% CI, 2.01-3.30) with no significant improvements in later studies. After adjustment, a substantial proportion (91% of men and 79% of women) had a negative outcome (residual disability, died, or nursing home residence at 12 months) in the most recently completed study (BHS7). Conclusions Over 2 decades, patients undergoing usual care post–hip fracture still had substantial residual disability. Additional clinical and research efforts are needed to determine how to improve hip fracture treatment, rehabilitation, and subsequent outcomes.

Background: We examined the relationship between alcohol consumption and hip fracture recovery. Methods: Repeated measures analysis was used to analyze Baltimore Hip Studies (BHS) seventh cohort 12-month prospective data of hip fracture patients. The analytical sample was limited to individuals with baseline and follow-up alcohol data, representing n = 278 sample size, 49% male, and mean age 81 years. Results: In the year prior to fracture, sample reporting indicated 45% nondrinking, 48% one to seven drinks per week, and 7% eight or more drinks per week alcohol levels. There were some changes in alcohol status during the study period ( p < .001); 42% remained nondrinkers and 47% remained alcohol consumers, but 8% stopped alcohol use, and 3% reported alcohol consumption after nondrinking at baseline. Alcohol was a predictor ( p < .05) of disability and physical function, not showing worse recovery for drinkers. Conclusion: Almost half of the sample consumed alcohol throughout the study period, with no clear indication of negative effects on hip fracture recovery.

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the feasibility of the self-efficacy based Epilepsy-Motivate and Outcome Expectations for Vigorous Exercise (EMOVE) intervention and report on the preliminary efficacy of this intervention aimed at improving exercise behaviors in adults with epilepsy. Methods: A single-group, repeated-measures design was used in 30 outpatients. Data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks after the intervention. Participant outcomes included Self-Efficacy and Outcome Expectations for Exercise in Epilepsy, Beck Depression Inventory-II, Quality of Life in Epilepsy Inventory-31, seizure frequency, average daily steps, and body mass index. Daily number of steps was measured using a wrist-worn activity monitor. Feasibility data were assessed using evidence of treatment fidelity including intervention delivery, receipt, and enactment. Results: Participants were single (63%), white (53%), female (63%), had a mean (SD) age of 46.7 (13) years (range, 26-68 years), had low levels of self-efficacy (mean, 5.10; range, 0-10) and high outcome expectations (mean, 3.90; range, 0-5), took under the recommended 10 000 steps per day (mean, 5107), and had an average of 6 seizures per month. Postintervention testing showed statistical improvement in depressive symptoms (mean [SD], 9.95 [9.47]; P < .05). There were no significant differences found for the other study outcomes. Our study showed the EMOVE intervention was feasible. Study participants had improved depressive symptoms. Future research should focus on increasing the sample size, improving exercise performance through group or individualized exercise sessions, and adding a control group to better evaluate the relationship between the intervention and improved depressive symptoms.

The purpose of the current study was to describe gender differences in the quality of interactions between nursing home residents with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia and staff. Data from the Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (EIT-4-BPSD) implementation study were used for the current study. A total of 535 residents (72% female and 28% male) from 55 settings were included in the analyses. The highest percentage of interactions occurred in dining rooms (38.4%) and with nursing staff (68%). There were no significant differences in the quality of staff interactions with male or female residents. Most interactions were positive social ( n = 360, 71% males, 66% females), positive care ( n = 312, 60% males, 58% females), or neutral ( n = 123, 25% males, 22% females). There were 31 (7% males, 6% females) negative protective and 23 (3% male, 5% female) negative restrictive interactions. Future work should focus on eliminating neutral and negative interactions across both genders and address whether the gender of staff is related to the quality of staff–resident interaction. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47 (5), 19–25.]

BackgroundHip fractures are a public health problem among older adults, but most research on recovery after hip fracture has been limited to females. With growing numbers of hip fractures among males, it is important to determine how recovery outcomes may differ between the sexes.Methods168 males and 171 females were enrolled within 15 days of hospitalization with follow-up visits at 2, 6, and 12 months postadmission to assess changes in disability, physical performance, cognition, depressive symptoms, body composition, and strength, and all-cause mortality. Generalized estimating equations examined whether males and females followed identical outcome recovery assessed by the change in each outcome.ResultsThe mean age at fracture was similar for males (80.4) and females (81.4), and males had more comorbidities (2.5 vs 1.6) than females. Males were significantly more likely to die over 12 months (hazard ratio 2.89, 95% confidence interval: 1.56–5.34). Changes in outcomes were significantly different between males and females for disability, gait speed, and depressive symptoms (p < .05). Both sexes improved from baseline to 6 months for these measures, but only males continued to improve between 6 and 12 months. There were baseline differences for most body composition measures and strength; however, there were no significant differences in change by sex.ConclusionsFindings confirm that males have higher mortality but suggest that male survivors have continued functional recovery over the 12 months compared to females. Research is needed to determine the underlying causes of these sex differences for developing future prognostic information and rehabilitative interventions.

Objectives Physical therapist intervention studies can be deemed ineffective when, in fact, they may not have been delivered as intended. Measurement of treatment fidelity (TF) can address this issue. The purpose of this study was to describe TF of a home-based intervention, identify factors associated with TF, and examine whether components of TF were associated with the outcome of change in 6-minute walk distance (∆6MWD). Methods This is a secondary analysis of community-dwelling hip fracture participants who completed standard therapy and were randomly assigned to the active intervention (Push). Push was 16 weeks of lower extremity strengthening, function, and endurance training. TF was defined as delivery (attendance rate, exercise duration) and receipt (progression in training load, heart rate reserve [HRR] during endurance training, and exercise position [exercise on floor]). The outcome was ∆6MWD. Independent variables included baseline (demographic and clinical) measures. Descriptive statistics were calculated; linear and logistic regressions were performed. Results Eighty-nine participants were included in this analysis; 59 (66%) had attendance of 75% or greater. Participants walked for 20 minutes or more for 78% of sessions. The average training load increased by 22%; the mean HRR was 35%; and 61 (69%) participants exercised on the floor for at least 75% of sessions. Regression analyses showed that a higher body mass index and greater baseline 6MWD were related to components of TF; 4 out of 5 components of TF were significantly related to ∆6MWD. The strongest TF relationship showed that those who exercised on the floor improved by 62 m (95% CI = 31–93 m) more than those who did not get on the floor. Conclusions Measures of TF should extend beyond attendance rate. This analysis demonstrates how measures of TF, including program attendance, progression in training load, endurance duration, and exercising on the floor were significantly related to improvement in 6MWD in participants post hip fracture. Impact This careful analysis of treatment fidelity assured that the intervention was delivered and received as intended. Analysis of data from a large trial with participants after hip fracture showed that regular attendance, frequent endurance training for 20 minutes, increases in lower extremity training loads, and exercising on the floor were associated with improvements in the outcome of 6-minute-walk distance. The strongest association with improvement was exercising on the floor.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to expand on prior work testing invariance on several depression measures in community based older adults and explore the psychometric properties and evidence of invariance between racial groups based on the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia DESIGN: This was a descriptive measurement study. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: This was a secondary data analysis using baseline data from two studies: Testing the Implementation of the Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms Associated with Dementia and the study Testing the Impact of Function and Behavior Focused Care for Nursing Home Residents with Dementia. Combined, 67 nursing homes participated from two states and 889 residents were recruited. The mean age of the participants was 86.58 (SD=10.31) and the majority was female (72%) and White (70%). METHODS: This was a descriptive study and a Rasch analysis was done to establish reliability based on internal consistency and evidence of Differential Item Functioning (DIF) across races. Validity was based on item fit and model testing with Structural Equation Modeling to compare models between White and Black participants. RESULTS: There was evidence of internal consistency (Alpha Coefficient of.98) and no significant evidence of DIF. The item related to suicide had a high logit and did not significantly load onto the measurement model for Blacks. There was not a good spread of the items across the concept of depression. The model had a better fit with the items when used with White versus Black participants. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: The findings indicate that it would be helpful to add some additional items that reflect depressive symptoms among this population. Further the findings serve as a reminder that this measure may be biased toward identification of symptoms of depression among White versus Black residents.

Background: Positive and effective staff–resident interactions are imperative to adequately assess and meet the needs of cognitively impaired residents in nursing homes and optimize their quality of life. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to quantify, describe, and analyze the interaction between staff and cognitively impaired residents in nursing homes, using the Quality of Interaction Schedule (QuIS). Specifically, the following aims were addressed— Aim 1: To quantify and describe the quality of interactions between staff and cognitively impaired residents in nursing homes. Aim 2: To analyze whether the quality of staff–resident interactions vary by resident cognitive status (moderate vs severe) and interaction characteristics (interaction location, interaction situation, interpersonal distance, type of staff, and resident level of participation). Method: This descriptive analysis utilized baseline data from the first 2 cohorts in a randomized clinical trial including 341 residents from 35 nursing homes. Results: Five hundred fifty-six staff–resident interactions were evaluated; majority were positive (n = 466, 83.8%) and the remaining were either neutral (n = 60, 10.8%) or negative (n = 30, 5.4%). The quality of interactions varied by interaction location, interpersonal distance, and resident participation. Conclusion: This study provides some current descriptive information about the quality of staff-resident interactions in nursing homes and the interaction characteristics that might impact these interactions. Future research should focus on decreasing the negative/neutral interactions and explore staff characteristics (e.g., gender, level of experience) and facility factors (e.g., size, ownership) that might influence the quality of interactions.

Background Federal regulations stipulate that behavioral interventions be used for behavioral and psychological symptoms of distress in dementia (BPSD). Care community staff have difficulty implementing these approaches. Purpose This study tested an implementation strategy, the Evidence Integration Triangle for BPSD (EIT-4-BPSD), for assisting staff in the use of evidence-based behavioral approaches for BPSD. Methods About 55 care communities were randomized to EIT-4-BPSD or usual care; 553 residents were enrolled. The implementation strategy was delivered by research facilitators, staff, stakeholders, and champions over 12 months. It involved four components: Environment and policy assessments; Staff education; Establishment of person-centered care plans; and Mentoring and motivating staff. The implementation strategy was evaluated using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance model. Findings There was no evidence for resident or care community effectiveness. There was evidence of adoption and implementation. Discussion EIT-4-BPSD was helpful as an implementation strategy and staff altered how care was provided.

This study tested the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the MotionWatch 8 among assisted living residents with and without cognitive impairment. Data from the Dissemination and Implementation of Function Focused Care in Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle study were used. The sample included 781 individuals from 85 facilities with a mean age of 89.48 (SD = 7.43) years. The majority were female (71%), White (97%), and overall (44%) had cognitive impairment. A total of 70% were willing to wear the MotionWatch 8. Reliability was supported as there was no difference in time spent in activity across three consecutive wear days. Validity was based on hypothesis testing, and function was associated with counts of activity at baseline (p = .001) and 4 months (p = .001). Those with cognitive impairment engaged in less physical activity (p = .04). The MotionWatch 8 is a useful option for measuring physical activity in older adults with and without cognitive impairment.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Function Focused Care for Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT) intervention. DESIGN: FFC-AL-EIT was a randomized controlled pragmatic trial including 85 sites and 794 residents. INTERVENTION: FFC-AL-EIT was implemented by a Research Nurse Facilitator working with a facility champion and stakeholder team for 12 months to increase function and physical activity among residents. FFC-AL-EIT included: (Step I) Environment and Policy Assessments; (Step II) Edusscation; (Step III) Establishing Resident Function Focused Care Service Plans; and (Step IV) Mentoring and Motivating. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: The age of participants was 89.48 (SD=7.43), the majority was female (N=561, 71%) and white (N=771, 97%). METHODS: Resident measures, obtained at baseline, four and 12 months, included function, physical activity, and performance of function focused care. Setting outcomes, obtained at baseline and 12 months, included environment and policy assessments and service plans. RESULTS: Reach was based on 85 of 90 sites that volunteered (94%) participating. Effectiveness was based on less decline in function (p

The purpose of this study was to test the impact of function-focused care on adverse outcomes in assisted living. This was a randomized trial including 85 settings. The age of the 794 recruited participants was 89.48 (SD = 7.43) years, the majority was female (n = 561, 71%) and White (n = 771, 97%). The percentage of residents in the treatment group experiencing a fall decreased at 12 months from 26% to 20% and the control group increased from 24% to 25%, p = .02. A greater percentage of residents in the treatment group transferred to nursing facilities at 4 months (4–1% in control vs. 4–5% in treatment, p = .02) and 12 months (4–2% in control and 4–7% in treatment, p = .01). There was no treatment effect on emergency room or hospital transfers. The findings support the safety of function-focused care related to falls and need for hospital transfers.

Purpose Assess patient- and clinical-related variables associated with targeted cancer treatments (TTs) for adults ≥85 years of age. Rationale TTs have pathway-specific side effects that negatively affect QoL and medication adherence, which may reduce TT efficacy. Research has not focused on patients aged ≥85 years; therefore, the scope of TT use in this age group is not understood. Methods We conducted an electronic medical record review to identify individuals ≥ 85 years treated with TT. Results The sample ( N = 295) was 53.5% male, 41% married/partnered, and 73.7% Caucasian. Common cancer types included breast (26.3%), prostate (31.3%), and leukemia (14.1%). Only one-third ( n = 98) of the sample had TT side effects noted in their patient chart. Conclusions Patients aged ≥85 years took similar TTs and experienced similar side effects as reported by research of younger patients; however, symptom experience was not well-reported.

Lack of identification and management of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) can negatively impact female residents. The purpose of this secondary data analysis was to explore gender differences in presentation and management of BPSD and quality of interactions between residents and staff. A total of 553 residents from 55 nursing homes were included. Males exhibited more apathy and sexually inappropriate behavior and females exhibited more anxiety and sadness. Anxiety and sexually inappropriate behavior were more likely to be addressed in care plans for males than females. There was no difference in how staff interacted with males or females.

The purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Checklist for Function-Focused Care in Service Plans. Function-focused care is a care approach that optimizes function and physical activity during all care interactions. This study used baseline data from the first cohort of the study titled Dissemination and Implementation of Function-Focused Care for Assisted Living Using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT). A total of 242 participants were recruited from 26 assisted living facilities. The majority of participants were White, female, and unmarried. There was support for internal consistency with an alpha coefficient of .96, interrater reliability with a correlation of .80, construct validity based on Rasch analysis and INFIT statistics ranging from 0.69 to 1.29, and a significant association with function-focused care activities. Although there is some support for reliability and validity of the measure, modifications are recommended to add more challenging items.

Background: Incidence of hip fractures in men is expected to increase, yet little is known about consequences of hip fracture in men compared to women. It is important to investigate differences at time of fracture using the newest technologies and methodology regarding metabolic, physiologic, neuromuscular, functional, and clinical outcomes, with attention to design issues for recruiting frail older adults across numerous settings. Objectives: To determine whether at least moderately-sized sex differences exist across several key outcomes after a hip fracture. Design, Setting, & Participants: This prospective cohort study (Baltimore Hip Studies 7th cohort [BHS-7]) was designed to include equal numbers of male and female hip fracture patients to assess sex differences across various outcomes post-hip fracture. Participants were recruited from eight hospitals in the Baltimore metropolitan area within 15 days of admission and were assessed at baseline, 2, 6 and 12 months post-admission. Measurements: Assessments included questionnaire, functional performance evaluation, cognitive testing, measures of body composition, and phlebotomy. Results: Of 1709 hip fracture patients screened from May 2006 through June 2011, 917 (54%) were eligible and 39% (n=362) provided informed consent. The final analytic sample was 339 (168 men and 171 women). At time of fracture, men were sicker (mean Charlson score= 2.4 vs. 1.6; p

We assessed the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational factors that predicted job satisfaction among long-term care employees.Baseline data were used to describe characteristics that influence job satisfaction. Using a forced linear regression model, while controlling for age and job title, we assessed if higher physical activity levels, fewer symptoms of depression, stress, and/or anxiety (ie, decreased mood), less back pain, stronger social support, and reports of low work demands were associated with higher job satisfaction.Mood (β = -0.412, P = 0.003) explained 17% of the variance in job satisfaction.This information can be used to guide facility wide programs and interventions aimed at increasing job satisfaction among all long-term care staff.

Little literature exists examining the development and implementation of person-centered care (PCC) plans focused on behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). The current study aimed to describe BPSD documented in nursing home (NH) residents' care plans, the types of approaches staff document in addressing those symptoms, and whether resident and/or facility characteristics are associated with documentation of PCC approaches. The sample included 553 residents from 55 NHs in two East Coast states. Resistiveness to care (44.9%), agitation (42.2%), and aggression (42%) were most frequently documented in care plans. PCC approaches were documented in care plans in 21.3% to 62.7% of cases depending on BPSD type. Resident (e.g., younger age, lower functional ability, lower cognitive ability, longer length of stay, male gender) and facility (e.g., less certified nursing assistant staffing hours, greater percentage of residents taking antipsychotic medications, non-profit status) characteristics were associated with increased odds of PCC approaches being documented. Optimal PCC planning is discussed, and a sample PCC plan is provided. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 46 (11), 17–27.]

Importance Disability persists after hip fracture in older persons. Current rehabilitation may not be sufficient to restore ability to walk in the community. Objective To compare a multicomponent home-based physical therapy intervention (training) with an active control on ability to walk in the community. Design, Setting, and Participants Parallel, 2-group randomized clinical trial conducted at 3 US clinical centers (Arcadia University, University of Connecticut Health Center, and University of Maryland, Baltimore). Randomization began on September 16, 2013, and ended on June 20, 2017; follow-up ended on October 17, 2017. Patients aged 60 years and older were enrolled after nonpathologic, minimal trauma hip fracture, if they were living in the community and walking without human assistance before the fracture, were assessed within 26 weeks of hospitalization, and were not able to walk during daily activities at the time of enrollment. A total of 210 participants were randomized and reassessed 16 and 40 weeks later. Interventions The training intervention (active treatment) (n = 105) included aerobic, strength, balance, and functional training. The active control group (n = 105) received transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and active range-of-motion exercises. Both groups received 2 to 3 home visits from a physical therapist weekly for 16 weeks; nutritional counseling; and daily vitamin D (2000 IU), calcium (600 mg), and multivitamins. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome (community ambulation) was defined as walking 300 m or more in 6 minutes at 16 weeks after randomization. The study was designed to test a 1-sided hypothesis of superiority of training compared with active control. Results Among 210 randomized participants (mean age, 80.8 years; 161 women [76.7%]), 197 (93.8%) completed the trial (187 [89.0%] by completing the 6-minute walk test at 16 weeks and 10 [4.8%] by adjudication of the primary outcome). Among these, 22 of 96 training participants (22.9%) and 18 of 101 active control participants (17.8%) (difference, 5.1% [1-sided 97.5% CI, −∞ to 16.3%]; 1-sidedP = .19) became community ambulators. Seventeen training participants (16.2%) and 15 control participants (14.3%) had 1 or more reportable adverse events during the intervention period. The most common reportable adverse events reported were falls (training: 6 [5.7%], control: 4 [3.8%]), femur/hip fracture (2 in each group), pneumonia (training: 2, control: 0), urinary tract infection (training: 2, control: 0), dehydration (training: 0, control: 2), and dyspnea (training: 0, control: 2). Conclusions and Relevance Among older adults with a hip fracture, a multicomponent home-based physical therapy intervention compared with an active control that included transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and active range-of-motion exercises did not result in a statistically significant improvement in the ability to walk 300 m or more in 6 minutes after 16 weeks. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT01783704

Background/Purpose:Mechanistic insight into osteoarthritis fatigue is needed as clinical management of this condition is nonspecific. Systemic inflammation is associated with fatigue in other chronic diseases. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between systemic inflammation and fatigue in osteoarthritis, while controlling for covariates.Method:This secondary analysis with a cross-sectional, multiyear retrospective design used data from the 2007−2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Adults with self-reported osteoarthritis who participated in an examination at a mobile center and had no comorbidities associated with fatigue or systemic inflammation were included ( n = 296). Complex sample analysis, independent samples t tests, and χ2tests of independence were used to explore differences between nonfatigued and fatigued adults with osteoarthritis. Adjusted hierarchical logistic regression models were used to calculate odds of fatigue as a function of two systemic inflammatory markers, C-reactive protein (CRP), and white blood cell (WBC) count.Results:Fatigued adults with osteoarthritis had significantly higher CRP levels and WBC counts compared to nonfatigued adults with osteoarthritis. In adjusted logistic regression models, increased CRP was associated with higher odds of fatigue when controlling for age, days affected by pain, depressive symptoms, sleep quantity, and body mass index (Odds ratio [ OR] = 3.38, 95% CI [1.18, 9.69]). WBC count was not associated with higher odds of fatigue when controlling for these variables ( OR = 1.10, 95% CI [0.92, 1.32]).Conclusion:Systemic inflammation may have a relationship with fatigue in osteoarthritis. Future work is necessary to replicate these findings in more robust studies.

BackgroundThere continues to be a belief among nurses, patients, and families that physical activity increases the risk of falling.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that controlling for age, function, cognition, medication use, gender, comorbidities, and cognition, residents who are exposed to Function Focused Care for Assisted Living (FFC-AL-EIT) and engage in moderate levels of physical activity would not be more likely to fall.MethodsThis was a secondary data analysis using data from the first two cohorts of a randomized trial testing FFC-AL-EIT in the United States.ResultsThe study included 381 residents, the majority of whom were female (70%), white (97%), with a mean age of 87.72 (standard deviation = 7.47). Those who engaged in more moderate-intensity physical activity were 1% less likely to fall (odds ratio = .99, p = .03). There was no significant association between exposure to function focused care and falling (odds ratio = 1.58, p = .09).ConclusionThere was no indication that those who were exposed to function focused care or those who engaged in moderate-level physical activity were more likely to fall. In fact, engaging in moderate-level physical activity was noted to be slightly protective of falling.

Well-being is an important outcome for people with dementia. The current study is a secondary analysis of baseline data from an ongoing pragmatic trial. Affect balance, the ratio of positive to negative affect, was used as a measure of well-being, and factors related to it were examined in a sample of 325 nursing home residents. Measures of staff interaction during caregiving, staff knowledge of person-centered approaches for dementia care, staff hours of care, the physical environment, person-centered policies, resident function, and quality of life were obtained using direct observation, staff interview, and medical chart review. The results of the quantile multivariable regression analysis indicated that positive staff interaction and higher resident function were significantly associated with higher affect balance after controlling for other variables. The findings have heuristic value for the development of conceptual frameworks that focus on meaningful outcomes for residents with dementia and future research. [ Research in Gerontological Nursing, 13 (1), 21–30.]

The purpose of the current study was to test for gender differences among residents living in assisted living settings. This was a secondary data analysis using data from the first 64 facilities participating in the ongoing Function Focused Care for Assisted Living study using the Evidence Integration Triangle (FFC-AL-EIT). A total of 593 residents were recruited. Differences by gender with regard to function, physical activity, falls, total number of medications, and satisfaction with assisted living were tested using multivariate analysis of variance. There were 166 (28%) men and 427 (72%) women with a mean age of 88 ( SD = 7.5 years). Participants had five ( SD = 2) comorbidities and took on average 6.88 medications ( SD = 3.47). Participants had moderate functional impairment with a mean of 64.13 ( SD = 19.09) on the Barthel Index and engaged in 43.8 ( SD = 76.12) minutes daily of moderate level physical activity. Women reported higher satisfaction with activities (4.32 [ SD = 1.14]) than men (3.85 [ SD = 1.51]), and women received more medications than men (7.09 [ SD = 3.51] vs. 6.34 [ SD = 3.31]). Current study findings suggest that deprescribing may be particularly important for women versus men and focusing on expanding activity options to include those preferred by men should be considered in assisted living settings. [ Research in Gerontological Nursing, 13 (1), 31–40.]

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of the Function and Behavior Focused Care for the Cognitively Impaired (FBFC-CI) intervention on function, physical activity and behavioral symptoms among nursing home residents with dementia, and to explore the adoption of the intervention at the facility level. DESIGN: This study was a clustered, randomized controlled trial with a repeated measures design that was implemented in 12 nursing homes randomized to either treatment (Function and Behavior Focused Care for the Cognitively Impaired Intervention (FBFC-CI) or educational control (Function and Behavior Focused Care Education (FBFC-ED). SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS: 12 nursing homes (6 treatment and 6 control) and 336 residents (173 treatment and 163 control) with moderate to severe cognitive impairment. MEASURES: Outcomes included functional ability (Barthel Index), physical activity (actigraphy and survey), behavioral symptoms (Resistiveness to Care Scale, Cohen Mansfield Agitation Inventory, Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia) and psychotropic medication use. RESULTS: The participants 82.6 (SD=10.1) years of age, mostly female and were moderate to severely cognitively impaired (MMSE of 7.8, SD=5.1). There was a significantly greater increase in time spent in total activity (p=0.004), moderate activity (p=0.012) light activity (p=0.002), and a decrease in resistivenes to care (p=0.004) in the treatment versus control group at 4 months. There was no change in mood, agitation, and the use of psychotropic medications. There was some evidence of adoption of the intervention in treatment sites. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: This study provides some support for the use of the FBFC-CI intervention to increase time spent in physical activity and decrease resistive behaviors during care commonly noted among nursing home residents with moderate to severe cognitive impairment.

Background and PurposeThe purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Quality of Interaction Survey (QuIS) using a quantification scoring approach.MethodsBaseline data from the Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (EIT-4-BPSD) study was used.ResultsA total of 553 residents participated. There was evidence of inter-rater reliability with Kappa scores of .86 to 1.00 and internal consistency based on the Rasch analysis (item reliability of .98). There was some support for validity based on item fit and hypothesis testing as resistiveness to care was significantly associated with total QuIS scores.ConclusionThis study supports the use of the quantified QuIS to evaluate the quality of interactions over time and to test interventions to improve interactions.

Background Resistiveness to care is behavior that prevents or interferes with caregivers’ performing or assisting with activities of daily living and puts residents at risk for inappropriate use of antipsychotic drugs, other restraining interventions, social isolation, and physical abuse. The purpose of this study was to establish the psychometric properties of a previously developed Resistiveness to Care measure. Procedures This was a descriptive study using baseline data from an ongoing randomized controlled trial testing a Function and Behavior Focused Care (FBFC) intervention. Residents were eligible to participate if they were 55 years of age or older, had a Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) score of 15 or less, and were not enrolled in hospice or admitted for subacute care. Descriptive information included age, race, gender, cognitive status, and marital status. In addition to the Resistance to Care Scale, the Barthel Index, the Physical Activity Survey in Long Term Care (PAS-LTC), and the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) were completed. Psychometric testing was done using Rasch analysis and the Winsteps statistical program. Main findings The participants were moderate to severely cognitively impaired (MMSE of 7.23), functionally dependent (Barthel Index 47.31, SD 27.59), and engaged in only 134.17 (SD = 207.32) minutes of physical activity daily. Reliability was supported based on a Cronbach alpha of 0.84 and the DIF analysis, as there was no difference in function of the items between male and female participants. Validity was supported as all items fit the measurement model based on INFIT and OUTFIT statistics. Conclusions The findings support the reliability and validity of the Resistiveness to Care Scale for use with older adults with dementia in nursing home settings. Future work with the measure may benefit from the addition of items that are easier to endorse with regard to resistiveness to care (shutting eyes or spitting out food may be useful additions).

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this pilot study was to test the reliability and validity of the MotionWatch 8 with older adults. Methods: Participants wore the MotionWatch 8 for 3 days, completed a diary of activities and the Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale. Results: Evidence of reliability and validity was supported because there was no difference in daily level of activity and that recorded physical activity matched the activity counts. There was a significant difference in Borg RPE scale scores between the sedentary group (Borg RPE scale = 8.6,SD= 3.0) and those with some level of activity (Borg RPE scale = 9.9,SD= 2.3;F= 5.72,p= .02). Conclusion: The findings provide preliminary support for the reliability and validity of the MotionWatch 8 when used with older adults.

Pain has a significant effect on physical and psychological outcomes for older adults post orthopedic trauma. The purpose of this study was to describe the management of pain among older trauma patients and consider differences between those who received 3 or more dosages daily of opioids versus those who did not. This was a secondary data analysis using data from an intervention study testing the effect of Function Focused Care among older orthopedic trauma patients (FFC-AC). The FFC-AC study was done on trauma units in two acute care settings designated as Level I or II trauma centers from September 2014 to September 2015. All participants from the parent FFC-AC study were included. Data collection for the parent study was done within 24 hours of admission and within 24 hours of discharge and included demographics, medications, assessment of function, physical activity, mood, physical resilience, and whether the patient had pain and their pain intensity. Patient records included all 89 individuals from the parent study, 59 (66%) of whom were female and 82 (92%) were white. Records indicated that those who received more than three dosages per day of opioids had a shorter length of stay, were younger, had more intense pain, and were more resilient compared with those who received less than three dosages per day. This secondary data analysis provides support for the importance of considering pain and pain management among older adults post trauma.

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia are common in nursing home residents, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services now require that nonpharmacological interventions be used as a first-line treatment. Few staff know how to implement these interventions. The purpose of this study was to pilot test an implementation strategy, Evidence Integration Triangle for Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (EIT-4-BPSD), which was developed to help staff integrate behavioral interventions into routine care. The EIT-4-BPSD was implemented in 2 nursing homes, and 21 residents were recruited. A research nurse facilitator worked with facility champions and a stakeholder team to implement the 4 steps of EIT-4-BPSD. There was evidence of reach to all staff; effectiveness with improvement in residents’ quality of life and a decrease in agitation; adoption based on the environment, policy, and care plan changes; and implementation and plans for maintenance beyond the 6-month intervention period.

Background Measurement of physical function post hip fracture has been conceptualized using multiple different measures. Purpose This study tested a comprehensive measurement model of physical function. Design This was a descriptive secondary data analysis including 168 men and 171 women post hip fracture. Methods Using structural equation modeling, a measurement model of physical function which included grip strength, activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and performance was tested for fit at 2 and 12 months post hip fracture, and among male and female participants. Validity of the measurement model of physical function was evaluated based on how well the model explained physical activity, exercise, and social activities post hip fracture. Findings The measurement model of physical function fit the data. The amount of variance the model or individual factors of the model explained varied depending on the activity. Conclusion Decisions about the ideal way in which to measure physical function should be based on outcomes considered and participants. Clinical Relevance The measurement model of physical function is a reliable and valid method to comprehensively measure physical function across the hip fracture recovery trajectory.

Post–hip fracture generalized pain can lead to a progressive decline in function and greater disability. The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that influence pain among older adults post–hip fracture, including genetic variability, and evaluate whether pain directly or indirectly influenced upper and lower extremity function. This was a secondary data analysis using data from the first 200 participants in a Baltimore Hip Study (BHS), BHS-7. Assessments were done at 2 months post–hip fracture and included age, sex, marital status, education, cognitive status, comorbidities, body mass index (BMI), upper and lower extremity function, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 10 candidate genes, and total areas of pain and pain intensity. Model testing was done using the AMOS statistical program. The full sample included 172 participants with an average age of 81. Fifty percent were female and the majority was Caucasian (93%). Model testing was done on 144 individuals who completed 2 month surveys. Across all models, age, cognition, and BMI were significantly associated with total areas of pain. Thirty SNPs from five genes ( BDNF, FKBP5, NTRK2, NTRK3, and OXTR ) were associated with areas of pain and/or pain intensity. Together, age, cognition, BMI, and the SNP from one of the five genes explained 25% of total areas of pain and 15% of pain intensity. Only age and cognition were significantly associated with lower extremity function, and only cognition was significantly associated with upper extremity function. The full model was partially supported in this study. Our genetic findings related to pain expand prior reports related to BDNF and NTRK2 .

The Volunteering-in-Place (VIP) Program was developed to provide individualized meaningful volunteer activities matched to interests and capabilities for older adults with MCI in assisted living. The purposes of this single-site pre-test/post-test pilot study were to (1) establish feasibility of the VIP Program based on treatment fidelity (design, treatment, delivery, enactment); and (2) evaluate preliminary efficacy via improvement in psychological health (depressive symptoms, usefulness, purpose, resilience, and life satisfaction) and decreased sedentary activity (survey and Fitbit) at 3 and 6 months. Ten residents participated. The majority was white, female and educated, and on average 88 years old. The VIP Program was feasible and most participants continued to volunteer at 6 months. There were non-significant improvements in depressive symptoms, usefulness, purpose, resilience and recreational physical activity. The results of this study provide support for the feasibility of the VIP Program. Further study is necessary to examine efficacy.

Background and Purpose: The purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity for two new scales. Methods: We used baseline data from a worksite health promotion project with 98 long-term care staff and Pearson correlations and Rasch analysis testing. Results: For Staff Self-Efficacy for Function Focused Care and Staff Outcome Expectations for Function Focused Care item, reliability was .80 and .83, respectively. All items except one had acceptable INFIT and OUTFIT mean square statistics. Both new scales were significantly correlated (r = .342, p = .007), but neither of the scales were correlated with participants’ baseline exercise levels (r = .014, p = .918; r = .092, p = .454, respectively). Conclusions: There was some evidence of validity and internal consistency for both scales. Suggestions are provided to improve the measures for future use.

Objective The purpose of this study was to describe medication use and polypharmacy in assisted living settings. We hypothesized that: 1) age, gender, race, setting, multi-morbidity, and cognitive status would influence polypharmacy; and 2) polypharmacy would be associated with falls, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations. Design This was a descriptive study using data from a larger study testing the Dissemination and Implementation of Function Focused Care for Assisted Living (FFC-AL-EIT). Setting Participants were recruited from 26 assisted living settings. Participants A total of 242 individuals for cohort 1 consented and completed baseline data collection. Interventions Data were obtained from participant medical records, observations, and input from staff. Main outcome measure(s) Age, gender, race, ethnicity, comorbidities, cognitive status, medications, falls, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, function based on the Barthel Index and physical activity using the MotionWatch 8. Results Participants had a mean age of 86.86 (standard deviation [SD] = 7.0), the majority were women (n = 179, 74%) and white (n = 233, 96%), with five (SD = 2) diagnoses. The mean number of drugs was seven (SD = 3.56), and 51% were exposed to polypharmacy. The mean Barthel Index score was 63.06 (SD = 20.20), and they engaged in 111,353 (SD = 87,262) counts of activity daily. Fifty-eight residents fell at least once (24%), 22 were sent to the hospital (9%), and 32 (13%) to the emergency room. Neither hypothesis was supported. Conclusion Continued research is needed to explore the factors that influence polypharmacy. Identification of these factors will help guide deprescribing so that medication management does not harm older adults physically or cause unnecessary financial burden.

Hospitalized older persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are at greater risk for functional decline and increased care dependency after discharge due to a combination of intrinsic factors, environmental, policy, and care practices that restrict physical and cognitive activity, lack of family involvement and limited staff knowledge of dementia care. We have developed a theory-based intervention, Family centered Function-focused Care, that incorporates an educational empowerment model for family caregivers (FCGs) provided within a social-ecological framework to promote specialized care to patients with dementia during hospitalization and the 60-day post-acute period. Primary aims are to test the efficacy of the intervention in improving physical and cognitive recovery in hospitalized persons living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) and improving FCG preparedness and experiences. We will implement Family centered Function-focused Care in a cluster-randomized trial of 438 patient/FCG dyads in six hospital units randomized within three hospitals. We hypothesize that patients who receive the intervention will demonstrate better physical function, less delirium occurrence and severity, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and depression compared to those in the control condition (Education-only). We also hypothesize that FCGs enrolled in Family centered Function-focused Care will experience increased preparedness for caregiving, and less strain, burden, and desire to institutionalize, as compared to FCGs the control group. We will also examine the costs and relative cost savings associated with the intervention and will evaluate the cultural appropriateness of Family centered Function-focused Care for families from diverse backgrounds. Our theory-based intervention makes use of real-world applicable approaches in a novel and innovative way to change the paradigm of how we currently look at acute care and post-acute transitions in persons with ADRD. ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT03046121 . Registered on 8 February 2017.

The purpose of this study was to consider the feasibility, reliability, and validity of MotionWatch 8. A total of 249 residents were recruited from 26 assisted living settings. Data collection included demographics, comorbidities, function (Barthel Index), physical activity (MotionWatch 8), and falls. The mean age of participants was 86.86 ( SD = 7.0), the majority were women 179 (74%) and White ( N = 232, 96%). A total of 86% of participants wore the MotionWatch 8. There were no significant differences in physical activity over 3 days of testing. The MotionWatch 8 findings were significantly associated with activities of daily living (ADL) function. There were no significant differences in ADL function or physical activity between those who did and did not fall. The study provides additional support for the feasibility, reliability, and validity of the MotionWatch 8 and confirms that older adults living in assisted living settings spend the majority of their time in sedentary activity.

INTRODUCTION The purpose of this study was to test differences in psychotropic medication, function, physical activity, agitation, resistiveness to care, comorbidities, and depression among moderate to severely cognitively impaired nursing home residents who were fallers versus nonfallers. METHODS This was a secondary data analysis using baseline data from a randomized controlled trial testing the Function and Behavior Focused Care intervention across 12 nursing homes. The sample included 336 older adults, the majority of whom were female and white. RESULTS There was a significant difference in the total number of comorbidities, agitation, the total number of psychotropic medications, depressive symptoms, and physical activity between those who fell and those who did not fall (Pillai-Bartlett trace = 4.91; P < .001). DISCUSSION Findings support prior work except with regard to medication use, cognition, and function. Due to inconsistent findings, additional research is recommended particularly with regard to the use of specific drug groups and medications.