Research Projects
ACTS Signature Experience: Patient-Centered Care
To evaluate the improvement in resident and staff oriented outcomes, barriers or obstacles to culture change, technology features and best practices in person centered care to support the sustainability of ACTS Signature Experience. Accomplished In conjunction with ECRI Institut.
Assessing Health Related Quality of Life
To examine the health related quality of life of older adults who have recently started to receive long term care services in assisted living or a skilled care center. The study is looking at the changing needs of older adults receiving these services over time. In conjunction with Mary D. Naylor, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and funded by the National Institute of Aging; started in 2008, this is a longitudinal study over several years.
Snoezelen Program for Southampton Estates
To investigate the use of a Snoezelen program to utilize non-pharmacological means including sight, sound, touch and smell to calm agitation or increase social interaction in residents with either of these needs. In conjunction with Rochelle (Shelley) Robbins, PhD, of Holy Family University, Newtown, PA.
Affects of the New WillowBrooke Court at Ft. Washington Estates
To investigate whether the move to a new person-centered skilled nursing residence will improve the health, well-being and quality of life for the residents needing this level of care, as well as the ability of staff members to provide associated care and services. In conjunction with Karen Hirschman, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing.
Effects of Person-Centered Care in a Dementia Neighborhood: Cherry Springs at Spring House Estates
To investigate the effects on the health and quality of life of residents with dementia related to their move from a medical model skilled care center to a person-directed memory support neighborhood, as well as the ability of staff members to provide associated care and services. In conjunction with Karen Hirschman, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing.
Study for the Establishment of ACTS Hospice Program
To provide end-of-life hospice care for residents in the ACTS Northern Division communities. Licensed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvani.
Dining Preferences Study
To identify dining preferences for those on the ACTS waiting lists for all communities, with a similar survey being completed with the residents of Normandy Farms Estates. In conjunction with Holleran Consulting.
Attitudes, Knowledge & Opinions on End-of-Life and Hospice
To investigate the attitudes, knowledge and opinions on end-of-life and hospice for independent living residents and staff in ACTS communities in the Northern Division, to coincide with the establishment of the ACTS Hospice program. In conjunction with David J. Casarett, MD, MA, of the University of Pennsylvania Health System’s Division of Geriatric Medicine.
How Can We Better Meet the Needs of Patients with Dementia and Their Families?
To investigate the decision-making process for caregivers of residents with advanced dementia. In conjunction with Karen Hirschman, PhD, of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing and funded by the Alzheimer’s Association.
Workforce Quality of Life: Understanding Retention and Turnover
To identify and better understand key factors surrounding issues of employee retention and turnover within the ACTS organization. In conjunction with the University of Pennsylvania Health System’s Division of Geriatric Medicine.