SPA-LTC Program for Frailty Syndrome

This trial explores a program called Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long-Term Care (SPA-LTC), designed to improve care for individuals with frailty syndrome in long-term care homes. The goal is to evaluate the program's effectiveness in real-life settings and assess family satisfaction with the care their loved ones receive. The trial compares homes using the SPA-LTC program with those maintaining standard care. Suitable candidates are English-speaking long-term care residents with limited mobility and activity levels. As an unphased trial, this study allows participants to contribute to research that could enhance care practices in long-term care settings.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that the Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long-Term Care (SPA-LTC) program has been tested in various locations. Previous studies examined residents' and families' perceptions of the program and found no serious safety issues. Instead, they assessed the program's implementation and its impact on family satisfaction and staff confidence.

The program seeks to enhance care in long-term facilities by focusing on palliative care, which prioritizes comfort over cure. As a program rather than a medication or procedure, typical safety concerns like drug side effects do not apply. Any risks would relate to changes in daily routines or care practices, not direct health risks to participants.

Researchers are excited about the SPA-LTC Program because it introduces a new approach to managing frailty syndrome in long-term care homes. Unlike traditional methods that might focus solely on medical interventions, the SPA-LTC Program emphasizes integrating palliative care principles to enhance overall well-being and quality of life. This approach is unique because it aims to address the complex needs of frail individuals by fostering a more compassionate and holistic care environment, potentially leading to better outcomes and greater satisfaction for both residents and caregivers.

Research has shown that the Strengthening a Palliative Approach in Long-Term Care (SPA-LTC) program increases family satisfaction with care and boosts staff confidence. In earlier studies, families reported better communication and support when this program was implemented. Staff also felt more knowledgeable and confident in providing palliative care. Additionally, residents involved had fewer emergency hospital visits. In this trial, the intervention arm will test the SPA-LTC program, while the control arm will receive the standard of care. These findings suggest that the SPA-LTC program might effectively improve care for frailty syndrome in long-term care settings.¹²⁴⁶⁷