Development of Caring Model for Older Adults with Dementia in Community Through Family and Community Participation

Abstract

Purposes : To develop a model for caring for the Older Adults with dementia in the long-term care system with the participation of families and communities in Mahasarakham Province

Study design : Action Research.

Materials and Methods : The group of 100 key informants consisted of 11 elderly people with cognitive impairments and dementia, 11 of family caregivers, 42 of citizens, community leaders/ 20 of village health volunteers, 5 personnel from related agencies in the community, collected data before and after the implementations. Data were analyzed by distributing frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations and compare the average values with the Percentage difference statistic.

Main findings : Phase 1 found that care according to the normal care plan was not enough. Therefore, a model of adequate care for the elderly with dementia has been adopted. Involve the main caregiver in the family as well. The results of Phase 2, follow 12 activities in 3 months. The results of Phase 3, after receiving the program, Elderly people have better ability to carry out daily activities. Brain condition, especially memory, is better than before development. As for caregivers who live in the same family. The burden of care has decreased from before the development with statistical significance. Phase 3 showed that there are 3 important processes: Writing a care plan with dementia adequately, Family caregivers are skilled, and the community does not abandon each other. Reduce the burden of caring for elderly people with dementia.  

Conclusion and recommendations : Using a care model that emphasizes family and community participation. Improves ability of elderly with dementia to perform daily activities. Reduce the care burden on family caregivers.