Introduction
As professionals in the field of speech-language pathology, particularly those involved in online therapy services like TinyEYE, understanding the integration of comprehensive care programs can significantly enhance patient outcomes. The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) has shown promise in preventing delirium and functional decline in older adults, primarily in acute care settings. However, its application in rehabilitation settings has been less explored. This blog delves into the findings of a pilot feasibility study on the implementation of HELP in a rehabilitation context, offering insights for practitioners aiming to improve their therapeutic approaches.
Study Overview
The study, titled "Examining the Hospital Elder Life Program in a Rehabilitation Setting: A Pilot Feasibility Study," utilized a mixed-methods approach to evaluate the effectiveness of HELP in a post-acute rehabilitation hospital setting. The research involved 100 patients, divided into an intervention group receiving HELP and a control group receiving usual care. The study's primary focus was on changes in cognitive and functional outcomes, delirium prevalence, and overall patient satisfaction.
Key Findings
- Delirium Reduction: The intervention group experienced a significant reduction in delirium prevalence from 10.9% to 2.5%, compared to no change in the control group.
- Cognitive and Functional Improvements: Patients receiving HELP showed greater improvements in cognitive functions, particularly short-term memory and recall, as well as functional independence, as measured by the Functional Independence Measure (FIM).
- Shorter Hospital Stays: The intervention group had a shorter average length of stay, indicating more efficient rehabilitation processes.
Implications for Practice
For speech-language pathologists and other rehabilitation professionals, these findings underscore the potential benefits of incorporating HELP into rehabilitation protocols. The program's focus on cognitive and functional support aligns well with the goals of enhancing patient communication and independence. By leveraging HELP, practitioners can potentially reduce delirium incidence and improve overall patient outcomes.
Recommendations for Implementation
To effectively implement HELP in rehabilitation settings, practitioners should consider the following strategies:
- Volunteer Engagement: Increase the recruitment and training of volunteers to ensure consistent program delivery, particularly during evenings and weekends.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Foster better communication and collaboration between volunteers and clinical staff to enhance program integration and patient care.
- Continuous Education: Provide ongoing training for both volunteers and staff to maintain program efficacy and adapt interventions to meet patient needs.
Conclusion
The pilot study highlights the feasibility and potential benefits of the HELP in rehabilitation settings. By adopting such evidence-based interventions, practitioners can significantly enhance the quality of care for older adults, leading to better cognitive and functional outcomes. For those interested in further details, the original research paper can be accessed here.
