Using Community Connections to Help Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): O’Sullivan Kelly, Weaver Raven, Bolkan Cory, Gotch Chad, Geissal Erik, Swanson Breanne
Primary Institution: Washington State University
Hypothesis
Can partnerships between healthcare providers and community agencies improve the awareness and use of aging resources among older adults?
Conclusion
The study found that many older adults have unmet social needs, and partnerships between healthcare and community services can help address these needs.
Supporting Evidence
- The study involved 385 Medicare-eligible patients.
- 284 participants had unmet social needs identified.
- Only 36 participants accepted referrals to community resources.
- Positive associations were found between RAF score and age.
- Advanced care usage was positively associated with SDH needs.
Takeaway
Older people often need help that they don't know about, and working together with community services can make it easier for them to get that help.
Methodology
The study assessed social determinants of health needs during annual visits and connected patients to supportive services.
Limitations
Only a small number of participants accepted referrals to community resources despite identified needs.
Participant Demographics
Participants were Medicare-eligible primary care patients with an average age of 72.5, predominantly White (89.6%).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001, p=0.004, p=0.003
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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