AGING AS AN AMAZING PROCESS WITH SPECIALTY RESPITE SERVICES

Abstract

Background: The number of older adults with memory loss is growing exponentially and there is an increasing number of older adults with multiple medical chronic conditions, associated with increased health care costs. The Mobile Veteran Program (MVP) is a partnership between VAMedical Centers and local Veteran Service Organizations (VSO) that opens access to care and prevents institutionalization. The program is perfect for Veterans who live in their own home with or without assistance. Candidates for the program include Veterans experiencing memory or physical decline. The aim of this study is to describe the health and functioning of older Veterans utilizing theMVP respite service over time, focusing on their cognitive and physical functioning, depressive symptoms and caregiver burden. This study will also examine whether there is a relationship between the frequency of MVP respite service use and institutionalization and hospitalization risk. Methods: The VSO host provides a safe environment, with monthly safety surveys performed by the VAMedical Center staff. Participants are referred to theMVP from anyVA clinic with his/her providers approval. The VA sends a team of clinicians to the VSO site where they provide an array of meaningful activities, care, and supportive services designed to help with physical, social, and cognitive functioning as well as assist Veterans to stay engaged in life, maintain their independence and remain home-based. Services include therapeutic exercise, memory-focused brain exercises, current events discussions, nail care and hand hygiene, music, art, trivia, and other leisure activities. A nutritious lunch is provided by the VA although some VSO sites voluntarily donate lunches to the Veterans. Results: Of the 345 Veterans enrolled, one hundred percent of the Veterans rate the MVP as very good to outstanding. We identified a ninety eight percent decrease in the Veteran’s primary caregiver’s burden. Veteran caregivers report a perceived significant improvement in their loved one’s cognitive and physical functioning. Conclusions: The research is expected to demonstrate a favorable cost/benefit analysis of the new program, and will demonstrate whether this type of program is expected to have improved health benefits beyond the current standard of care.