We will present the findings from a knowledge exchange project conducted by researchers at The KITE Research Institute (University Health Network) together with Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO), Family Councils Ontario (FCO) and the Ontario Association of Resident's Councils (OARC). Together, we conducted a scoping review of published research that reported some aspect(s) of social connection among residents of long-term care (LTC) homes.
In this presentation, we will summarize the research evidence linking social connection to mental health outcomes for LTC residents as well as twelve strategies that might help to build and maintain social connection for LTC residents - both during COVID-19 and beyond
Presenters:
Jennifer Bethell, PhD, is an epidemiologist and health services researcher. She is interested in using large health administrative and survey datasets for mental health research across the life course. She is co-lead of the Engagement of People with Lived Experience of Dementia cross-cutting program of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration and Aging.
Katelynn Viau Aelick, MSc., is the Project Coordinator for the Behavioural Supports Ontario Provincial Coordinating Office. As part of her role, Katelynn facilitates initiatives focused on measuring BSO impact and surfacing and spreading best practices in the areas of education, transitions and sexual expression. Katelynn holds a Master's Degree in Ageing Studies and prior to her role with BSO, held positions in rural and northern health research and hospice care.
