Aging/Older Adults

One cause of direct-care worker turnover often cited by the workers themselves is inadequate job preparation. PHI developed a training approach over two decades that emphasizes interactive techniques which are more effective in training workers in communication, problem solving, and work readiness skills. This guide outlines learner-centered training and provides educators with tools to implement the principles in their own programs.

States can use this in the development or improvement of their own protocol for reviewing sites that deliver Medicaid and grant funded services. The purposes of the reviews are to ensure compliance with regulations, assist in development of policies and procedures, and identify potential areas for training and program improvement. Protocols are organized by review method and specify which indicators are measured, source of data to be gathered, and example inquiries.

What is a Green House home? It is an alternative residence for elders that need skilled nursing care. The architecture and services create small, homey environments that stress privacy, autonomy, support, and enjoyment. Visit the homepage to learn about the concept and efforts to replicate nationally. See “Research and Resources” and “Regulation and Legislation” for information on outcomes related to Green Houses and relevant state and federal policy.

In 2005, VT became the first state to commit to a federal Medicaid funding cap in exchange for expanded eligibility definitions and access to home and community-based services under a Section 1115 waiver. Case studies and interviews are used to present key findings from the program. Key design features are also presented. Finally, future issues within VT and other states that might emulate the program are discussed.

The Older Americans Act (OAA) gave rise to important HCBS programs such as the Choices for Independence initiative, ADRCs, and Nursing Home Diversion grants. Here is a concise summary of the legislation, its reauthorization in 2006, and data on the types of support provided under these programs, recipients, and expenditures.

Older Americans speak up on the importance of services and policies that enable them to age in place through the use of home and community-based services (HCBS). Results show that respondents are not only concerned with HCBS as they remain in the home, but also as they move to nursing home alternatives such as assisted living facilities. They identify the availability of long-term care options as one that should be a top priority for AARP's advocacy.

Visitability is a movement that seeks to eliminate certain barriers to aging independently by promoting accessible home design. The authors examine different types of visitability initiatives, challenges to implementation, and opportunities for further acceptance. The design parameters needed for visitability include a zero-step entrance, wide doorways, and at least one half bathroom on the main floor.

Since 2002, MetLife Mature Market Institute has gathered data on the costs of long-term care in institutional and community-based settings. This 2008 report looks at home care and adult day services. Costs are broken down by state, metropolitan statistical area (MSA), and “rest of state,” or areas not in a MSA. Home care costs are measured in hourly private pay rates, and adult day costs are measured in daily private pay rates.

Is your area a livable community? You can use this survey and accompanying reports as a model for finding out. AARP defines a livable community as one that allows people to maintain their independence and quality of life as they age and retire. Aspects that make a community livable include mobility, community supports, and affordable housing. Residents age 45 years and older in two OH counties were surveyed to measure whether these things are truly available in their communities.

Watch a series of short, simple and direct videos meant to educate and train family caregivers. Videos cover a range of topics from infection control to paperwork. A “Beyond the Video” section offers video summaries and tips for applying lessons to each family's situation.