Students Research in Progress
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
08:30 AM–10:00 AM
Abstract
Introduction:
Healthcare systems are often not well-prepared for the complex care required by older adults, which leads to a disproportionate level of adverse outcomes. The 4Ms framework uses evidence-based elements (what matters, mentation, medications, mobility) to promote age-friendly healthcare. Engaging older adults in self-advocacy is a key element of high-quality care. 4Ms educational materials targeting older adults and caregivers have been published. However, there is little information available evaluating the impact of this education.
Research Question or Hypothesis: Does 4Ms education improve older adults’ self-reported confidence in discussing what matters, mentation, medications, and mobility with their healthcare providers?
Study Design: Self-administered retrospective pre-then-post survey
Methods: Study participants were adults = 50 years old who attended a community-based 4Ms education program and completed a survey. The educational tool was administered by health professions students who completed a training module. The program included a presentation, small group discussions, and a self-administered survey (5-point likert scale) rating confidence in discussing the 4M topics before and after the program. Change in confidence levels was measured with a t-test.
Results: The study included 67 participants across nine community sites. The average age of participants was 78.8 years and 88% were female. Self-reported confidence increased from 4.04 to 4.31 (M=0.27, SD=0.57) for what matters (p<0.001), from 4.01 to 4.28 (M=0.27, SD=0.57) for mentation (p<0.001), from 4.34 to 4.54 (M=0.19, SD=0.76) for medications (p=0.04), and from 4.10 to 4.34 (M=0.24, SD=0.58) for mobility (p=0.001). Confidence increased from 16.51 to 17.48 (M=0.97, SD=1.77) for combined scores (p<0.001).
Conclusion: Participants had a high baseline level of self-rated confidence in their ability to communicate effectively with their healthcare providers on 4Ms topics. While the change in confidence before and after 4Ms education was small, it was statistically significant. This study supports the use of community-based 4Ms education as a potential tool to increase healthcare self-advocacy in older adults.
Presenting Author
Kenadie Janulewicz BSUNMC College of Pharmacy
Authors
Elizabeth Harlow MD
UNMC College of Medicine
Megan Kerns BS
UNMC College of Medicine
Donald G. Klepser PhD, MA
UNMC COP
Linda Sobeski PharmD
UNMC COP