Digital Commons Network^™

Older Adults In Long-Term Care: Fostering Hope Amidst Loss, Sarah J. Olsen

Master of Social Work Clinical Research Papers

There are an increasing number of older adults who are facing major life transitions and significant losses as they age. Finding a sense of hope among the losses and changes these older adults face is one way they can maintain a quality of life or as some researchers have termed it – successfully age. Social workers are often the front line workers with these older adults and therefore can play an integral role in fostering a sense of hope. The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand social workers’ perspectives on their role in fostering a sense of hope …

Motivations, Skills And Rewards: Social Workers’ Perspectives On Practice With Older Adults, Rachel L. Gilmore

Master of Social Work Clinical Research Papers

This study explored social workers’ views about their motivations, skills and rewards in work with older adults and how to increase social workers’ interest in working with older adults. Seven masters level social workers who work with older adults and are members of an association of social workers who work with older adults in the community, participated in interviews about their practice. The participants emphasized the importance of empathy, listening and having knowledge about community resources as essential to competent work with older adults. The participants shared stories about how they developed an interest in working with older adults that …

The Effects Of Walking Poles And Training On Gait Characteristics And Fear Of Falling In Community Dwelling Older Adults, Sarah Becker, Lisa Glad, Kelsie Nebelsick, Katie Yernberg

Doctor of Physical Therapy Research Papers

BACKGROUND & PURPOSE: Walking poles are becoming popular not only in younger populations, but also with older adults. Manufacturers are promoting the health benefits of walking poles and claim that they facilitate a more normal gait pattern and increase confidence with walking in older adults. There is a lack of evidence to support these claims. The purpose of this double-blinded randomized controlled trial involving community dwelling older adults is twofold: 1) to measure the impact of walking poles on gait speed, stride length, and fear of falling; and 2) to compare the impact of walking pole use between a structured …

Effects Of A Therapeutic Dance Program On Balance And Quality Of Life In Community Dwelling Older Adults, Krista Berger, Julie Kaminski, Lindsey Kolnik, Jennifer Miller

Doctor of Physical Therapy Research Papers

Background and Purpose

Falls are common in older adults and linked to decreased balance and increased morbidity. Regular exercise can improve balance and decrease falls risk. Recent research suggests that participation in cultural-based activities, such as dance, may be associated with decreased falls risk and improved health. The purpose of this study was to examine effects of a dance-based exercise program called "The Dancing Heart Program" on balance and quality of life in community-dwelling older adults. This is an interactive program facilitated by professional instructors from Kairos Dance Theatre in the Twin Cities. It includes activities challenging balance while providing …