Individualized Care Studies

Principal Investigator: Kimberly Van Haitsma
Period: February 2006 - January 2007
Funded by: Newell Foundation

Abstract: The Newell Foundation is committed to supporting research studies that will further the understanding of how to tailor non-medical aspects of care provided to individuals with a wide range of disabilities, including cognitive impairment. In this regard, one of the most rapidly growing "at risk" populations today is frail elders. Frail elders are at risk for the develpment of dementing illness and a variety of other functionally debilitating illnesses which result in the need for professional caregiving assistance to engage in activities of everday living. Frail elders receive assistance from professional caregiviers in a variety of settings including their own homes, hospitals, and adult day care, assisted living, and skilled nursing facilities.