Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychiatry
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia (NPS) significantly impact patient quality of life and increase healthcare costs.
• Behavioral interventions are the primary approach for managing NPS, necessitating the development of novel strategies.
• The Baycrest Quick-Response Caregiver Tool (BQRCT) has previously shown positive results in assisting community-based family caregivers with NPS management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a new version of the BQRCT tailored for healthcare professionals in long-term care (LTC) settings.
• To assess the utility and feasibility of the BQRCT within the LTC environment using a mixed-methods approach.

Main Methods:

• An online training module was developed, including educational and instructional videos, an instruction manual, and a pocket guide.
• Participants completed pre- and post-surveys immediately after training and at 4 weeks, assessing program impact and feasibility.
• Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative survey data and qualitative analysis of user feedback.

Main Results:

• The BQRCT was found to be useful and recommended by LTC staff.
• Participants reported improved interactions with residents after using the BQRCT.
• Qualitative feedback indicated the tool was informative, practical, realistic, easy to use, and promoted empathy.

Conclusions:

• The BQRCT is a feasible and valuable tool for use in long-term care settings.
• The training module is user-friendly and effective in fostering empathy among formal caregivers.
• The BQRCT demonstrates potential for improving the management of NPS in LTC facilities.