Affiliation:
1. Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Utah State University , Logan, Utah , USA
2. Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center, Utah State University , Logan, Utah , USA
Abstract
Abstract
Background and Objectives
Many persons with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD) receive care from paid staff in residential communities. The most common staff in these communities are certified nursing assistants (CNAs). Although CNAs have a high number of interactions with residents, and thus the possibility of engaging in social interactions, evidence suggests that they provide limited social support to persons with ADRD. Little is known about the attitudes of CNAs toward providing social support to persons with ADRD and their perception of components of quality social interactions with these individuals.
Research Design and Methods
We conducted a thematic analysis of semistructured interviews with 11 CNAs (91% female participants, mean age 23.6) to understand their perceptions about providing social support to persons with ADRD and the components of effective social interactions.
Results
Our results show that CNAs consider providing social support to be an important part of their role as CNAs. Additionally, participants emphasized the interplay of verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and internal beliefs and attitudes toward persons with ADRD in creating effective social interactions. Participants highlighted multiple barriers to providing residents with social support, including lack of time, lack of training, and the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
Discussion and Implications
We offer implications for expanding training for CNAs working with persons with dementia and improving policy based on our results.
Funder
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Research Center at Utah State University
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Life-span and Life-course Studies,Health Professions (miscellaneous),Health (social science)
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