Partners in Caregiving: Cooperative Communication Between Families and Nursing Homes

Two major mechanisms were employed by Partners in Caregiving (PIC) to bring about changes in family and staff perceptions and behaviors. Most important is the development of improved communication skills on the part of both groups. A substantial body of research suggests that enhancing communication skills may be a promising method for fostering partnerships and reducing conflict and hostility between families and nursing home staff.

The second component of the intervention focused on discussing (and recommending changes in) facility policies and procedures. To accomplish changes at the facility level, the PIC intervention included joint meetings of family and staff participants with facility administrators. These sessions were expected to increase the sense of involvement and control for participants and create solidarity between staff and families. Further, they provided an opportunity for members of both groups to work toward consensus on changes in facility practices or policies.

Contact:
Rhoda Meador, Associate Director, CITRA
rhm2@cornell.edu
607 254 5360

Products:

PIC Manual for Facility Training Teams

PIC Manual in a Speical Care Environment

Partners in Caregiving Program Brief

Bridging the Gap Between Families and Staff