Accessing Communication Support in Arkansas Elder Care
GrantID: 55682
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
Grant Overview
Overcoming Barriers in Arkansas Elder Care Communication
Arkansas, with its rural landscape and economically disadvantaged communities, faces significant barriers in the provision of effective communication within elder care facilities. The Arkansas Department of Human Services reports that a large percentage of nursing homesespecially in areas like the Delta regionstruggle with both staffing shortages and the technological capabilities necessary to facilitate regular communication with residents' families. These obstacles lead to decreased engagement, which can adversely affect the quality of care received by older adults.
Many families in Arkansas experience frustration as they seek regular updates and interaction with their elderly loved ones residing in nursing homes. Studies reveal that nearly 45% of family members report dissatisfaction with the level of communication they receive regarding their relatives’ health and well-being. This situation is critical not only for families but also for residents who benefit from maintaining strong connections with their loved ones.
To address these challenges, the proposed funding initiative focuses on launching a capacity-building effort specifically aimed at enhancing communication practices in local elder care facilities. This initiative will provide resources and workshops that empower facilities to improve staff training in communication skills, ensuring that both caregivers and administrators understand the importance of effective interactions. By sharing best practices and resources, this program aims to create a systematic approach to enhancing communication strategies within nursing homes.
The expected outcomes of this initiative will not just improve immediate communication between families and residents but also enhance overall care quality. By fostering an environment where families feel engaged and informed, Arkansas aims to reduce the feelings of isolation that nursing home residents often face. The initiative will work to integrate technology in a way that accommodates the specific barriers faced by Arkansas’s rural healthcare settings, thus helping to bridge the communication gaps that currently persist.
With a focus on building capacity, Arkansas’s initiative plans to create a sustainable framework for ongoing improvements in elder care communication practices. This approach not only addresses the immediate barriers faced by residents and families but also lays the groundwork for systemic transformations that enhance the overall quality of care in the state’s nursing homes.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
