Implementation outcomes of a dementia-focused intervention for family care partners and clinicians in home hospice care.

Danielle H Llaneza; Kira G Sheldon; Margaret McDonald; Elizabeth A Luth

doi:10.1017/s1478951526103538

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Implementation outcomes of a dementia-focused intervention for family care partners and clinicians in home hospice care.

Danielle H Llaneza·Kira G Sheldon·Margaret McDonald·Elizabeth A Luth

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Abstract

OBJECTIVES: End-of-life care for persons living with dementia in home hospice relies heavily on coordination between family care partners (FCPs) and clinicians (e.g., hospice social workers and nurses). FCPs and clinicians have reported support and knowledge gaps in end-of-life dementia care. Interventions are needed to improve FCPs' support and clinicians' educational gaps. METHODS: A pilot randomized controlled trial was designed to examine implementation outcomes for a dementia-focused end-of-life intervention for FCPs (n = 37) and clinicians (n = 15). Data on survey completion and acceptability were collected at baseline, during 4 follow-up visits, and at the conclusion of the study. RESULTS: Twenty-eight (75%) caregivers completed the post-study survey, and 10 (27%) reported using the structured worksheet. Thirteen (87%) clinicians completed the post-training survey, 8 (53%) completed the post-study survey, and 8 (100%) used the worksheet. Clinicians (n = 8) were satisfied or highly satisfied with the instructional videos, and half (50%) used the information frequently with patients. Both groups reported the worksheet helpful, easy to use, and satisfactory, though clinicians rated helpfulness slightly higher (mean = 3.88 vs. 3.70 for FCPs). Clinicians liked the worksheet's structured guidance and the enhanced collaboration. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS: This study provides preliminary evidence for implementation outcomes of a dementia-focused end-of-life intervention in home hospice. Findings suggest the intervention can be implemented in a hospice setting, with moderate worksheet uptake and perceived value among FCPs and clinicians.

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Humans Dementia Male Female Hospice Care Caregivers Home Care Services Pilot Projects Aged Middle Aged Surveys and Questionnaires Hospice caregiving dementia intervention nurses social workers Journal Article Randomized Controlled Trial

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Danielle H Llaneza, Kira G Sheldon, Margaret McDonald, Elizabeth A Luth. 2026-09-09. Implementation outcomes of a dementia-focused intervention for family care partners and clinicians in home hospice care.. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1478951526103538

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Journal Article; Randomized Controlled Trial resource Aged subject Female subject Humans subject Journal Article subject Male subject Middle Aged subject Nurses subject Pilot Projects subject Randomized controlled trials study intervention subject

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