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Communicate: organisational issues and their relevance for clinical evaluation
1School of Social Science, Middlesex University, Queensway, Enfield. L.A.Jordan@mdx.ac.uk
Summary
This study evaluates a training program for carers of older adults with communication impairments. Initial findings focus on organizational aspects and inform the upcoming clinical evaluation of the Communicate program.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Health Services Research
- Communication Sciences
Background:
- Older adults often experience communication impairments, necessitating specialized caregiver training.
- The Communicate, Action for Dysphasic Adults program offers training for carers of this population.
- Independent evaluation is crucial for understanding program effectiveness and implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct an independent evaluation of the Communicate training program.
- To assess the organizational use of the Communicate program nationally and regionally.
- To investigate clinical outcomes for individuals with communication impairments and training participants.
Main Methods:
- The project involves an organizational evaluation (Jan-July 1998) and a clinical evaluation (from Sept 1998).
- Organizational evaluation reviewed program use by purchasers.
- Clinical evaluation will examine outcomes for patients and trainees.
Main Results:
- Initial findings from the organizational evaluation are presented.
- The paper details the research design and progress to date.
- Early insights highlight the importance of organizational factors.
Conclusions:
- Organizational issues significantly impact training program implementation.
- Social science research provides valuable insights for clinical evaluations.
- Further clinical evaluation is planned to assess direct outcomes.