Replication of Implementing a Sit-to-Stand Exercise Program in an Assisted Living Facility.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Quality Improvement Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Assisted living facilities (ALFs) require effective interventions to maintain resident function.
• Maintaining independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) is crucial for resident well-being.
• The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges to implementing health programs in ALFs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To replicate the implementation of a sit-to-stand exercise program in a rural assisted living facility.
• To assess the program's impact on residents' functional independence in activities of daily living (ADLs).
• To evaluate the feasibility of continuing the program amidst pandemic-related challenges.

Main Methods:

• A quality improvement project was conducted in a 20-bed assisted living facility.
• A sit-to-stand exercise program was implemented for residents.
• Resident participation and functional outcomes related to ADLs were monitored.

Main Results:

• The exercise program was successfully implemented and sustained despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
• High levels of resident participation were achieved.
• Residents maintained or improved their functional independence in ADLs.

Conclusions:

• Sit-to-stand exercises are a viable intervention for maintaining resident function in ALFs.
• Successful program implementation is possible even in challenging circumstances like a pandemic.
• The program contributed to preventing avoidable decline in residents' independence with ADLs.