Cohort Study of Community Participation of People Aging with Long-Term Physical Disabilities
There has been an increased push to provide evidence-based interventions for providing long-term support services to promote sustained independence and community participation of people with disabilities. However, to our knowledge, no such evidence-based interventions exist for this population. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study to examine the multiple interconnected factors (e.g., physical, behavioral and environmental) affecting participation in people aging with long-term physical disabilities (PAwLTPD). For more information visit www.cedarmidwest.org
Status
We have completed the cohort study, which has resulted in numerous publications. We are continuing to analyze data to answer research questions on both falls and participation over time for PAwLTPD.
Conduct a Feasibility Study of an Evidence-Based Intervention to Promote Participation for People Aging with Long-Term Physical Disabilities
We adapted and tested an evidence-based home modification and self-management intervention for people aging with long-term physical disabilities. This project consisted of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of the intervention, Removing Environmental Barriers to Independent Living (REBIL).
Status
We developed REBIL and tested the program with 50 participants. We have published papers describing both the protocol and the results of the study.
Home Hazard Removal Program through MADRN
One of the most striking findings from our longitudinal cohort study was the high rate of falls among participants, who are in a younger age group than that typically associated with falls. MADRN member organizations agreed that falls were a concern for their clients who are aging with disabilities. Therefore, we decided to test the Home Hazard Removal Program (HARP) with PAwLTPD recruited through MADRN organizations.
Status
The HARP MADRN study has been completed. We are now running data analyses and preparing a manuscript for publication.