Improving Resident Quality of Life
The Power of Peer Support project is exploring a solution to reduce loneliness and social isolation among residents living in long-term care (LTC). This solution uses facilitated peer support groups to encourage residents to build meaningful relationships and support one another.
The Ontario Centre for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care (CLRI) at Bruyère, in collaboration with Carleton University’s Department of Health Sciences, Bruyère Continuing Care and Java Group Programs, have been working to develop resources to increase the access and use of these powerful peer support interventions. The project has supported recreation professionals at 38 LTC homes across Ontario through in-person workshops, a series of webinars, newsletters and coaching. In an effort to spread the success, the team has written articles, delivered conference presentations, engaged with media and produced a short documentary series.
Background
There are profound negative health outcomes of loneliness, including depression, dementia and increased mortality. Research shows that 55% of residents in LTC experience loneliness. It is clear that there is a need for creative strategies to help residents feel connected. Supported by Knowledge Mobilization Partnership Project (KMP2) funding from the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation, with additional funding from Carleton University’s Department of Health Sciences and the Government of Ontario through the Ontario CLRI at Bruyère, the team has brought meaningful peer support programs to 38 LTC homes and 5 retirement homes across Ontario, and are conducting rigorous research to understand the overall health and social benefits of peer support groups. Learn more about the Power of Peer Support Project.+
In the News
Research Findings
Research Results Infographic – Results from a study that assessed the psychological and cognitive health benefits of the Java Music Club in Riverstone Retirement Communities.
Research Results Video (YouTube) – A video summarizing the results from a study that assessed the psychological and cognitive health benefits of the Java Music Club in Riverstone Retirement Communities.
Academic Poster – a poster of the findings from the study that assessed the psychological and cognitive health benefits of the Java Music Club in Riverstone Retirement Communities. Poster presented at Therapeutic Recreation Ontario’s Annual Conference in May 2019.
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