A Feasibility Study of a Volunteer Navigation Program in the Palliative Context

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Palliative Care
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Older adults with serious illness often face complex care needs.
• Volunteer navigation programs can potentially improve care coordination and support.
• Evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of such programs is crucial for successful implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, ease of use, and satisfaction of the Nav-CARE program.
• To assess the perspectives of both older persons with serious illness and volunteer navigators.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods longitudinal study design was employed.
• Nine volunteer navigators provided support to 23 older persons over one year.
• Data collection included baseline, during, and post-implementation assessments from participants and navigators.

Main Results:

• Both older persons and volunteer navigators reported Nav-CARE as easy to use, feasible, and acceptable.
• High satisfaction rates were reported: 100% of older persons and 100% of navigators were satisfied.
• A significant majority indicated the program's importance, willingness to recommend, and likelihood of re-participation.

Conclusions:

• The Nav-CARE program demonstrates feasibility, acceptability, and satisfaction among older persons with serious illness and their volunteer navigators.
• Findings suggest Nav-CARE is a viable and effective support service for this population.