Journal of the American Medical Directors Association
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
Effectiveness of a Diet and Resistance Exercise Intervention on Muscle Health in Older Adults: ProMuscle in Practice.
Clinical studies show that resistance exercise and a protein-rich diet can counteract the age-related decline of muscle mass, strength, and physical performance. The aim of the ProMuscle in Practice study was to test effectiveness of a resistance exercise and dietary protein intervention for older adults implemented in a real-life setting. ⋯ ProMuscle in Practice was effective on improving muscle strength and LBM, with small changes in the composite function score in community-dwelling older adults in a real-life setting. Further research should explore feasibility of real-life implementation, as well as improving long-term compliance.
-
To study the effects of a nonpharmacologic intervention, Music and Memory (M&M), on residents with dementia and/or behavioral problems living in nursing homes (NHs). ⋯ This is the largest study of M&M to date. We found clinically and statistically significant reductions in psychotropic medications and improved behaviors in residents using M&M. Although the study showed positive results overall, the lack of a control group was a significant limitation that precluded determining how much more improvement participating residents experienced compared with nonparticipants. Future studies should include a control group so that better conclusions can be drawn regarding the effectiveness of the M&M program.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Reducing the Burden of Complex Medication Regimens: SImplification of Medications Prescribed to Long-tErm care Residents (SIMPLER) Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial.
To assess the application of a structured process to consolidate the number of medication administration times for residents of aged care facilities. ⋯ One-off application of a structured tool to reduce regimen complexity is a low-risk intervention to reduce the burden of medication administration in RACFs and may enable staff to shift time to other resident care activities.
-
To identify clinical and/or functional variables predictive of successful oxygen-weaning among older patients affected by respiratory insufficiency undergoing pulmonary rehabilitation. ⋯ The restrictive pattern, PaO2/FiO2 ratio, and modified Borg dyspnea scale score under exertion were significantly associated with successful oxygen-weaning. The identified predictors may support clinicians at precociously identifying patients who may not require oxygen therapy after discharge. Therefore, these findings would make it possible for clinicians to better tailor the rehabilitation program.