Profile
Dr. Louise Demers is WP2-NEEDS-CG co-leader. She is Full Professor and Director of the School of Rehabilitation at the Université de Montréal, and Associate Vice-Dean for Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine. She is a scientist at the Research Center of the Institut Universitaire de Gériatrie de Montreal, Quebec. She is an internationally renowned researcher in the areas of outcome measurement, geriatric rehabilitation and assistive technology with over 120 peer-reviewed publications. Her research has been funded by several agencies, including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Fonds de Recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQ-S) and the US National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation. Dr. Demers is a member of the international Consortium for AT Outcomes Measures Research (CATOR), which was established in 2001 to advance the field of assistive technology outcomes measurement and strives to improve the instruments and techniques available to researchers, services providers, and policy makers. She has held a career investigator award from the FRQ-S from 2001 to 2013, has served on the Advisory Board for the Institute of Aging from 2006 to 2010, and continues to serve on the Steering Committee for the Quebec Network for Research on Aging. Outputs
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| Actual and ideal services in acute care and rehabilitation for relatives post-stroke from three perspectives: Relatives, stroke clients and health professionals | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-01-01 | A. Rochette, E. Racine, H. Lefebvre, J. Bastien, Myriam Tellier | | Ethical issues relating to the inclusion of relatives as clients in the post-stroke rehabilitation process as perceived by patients, relatives and health professionalsOBJECTIVE: To document the ethical issues regarding the systematic inclusion of relatives as clients in the post-stroke rehabilitation process. METHODS: A two-phase qualitative design consisting of in-depth interviews with relatives and stroke-clients (Phase 1) and three focus groups with relatives, stroke-clients and health professionals (Phase 2). Data was audio recorded. Transcribed interviews and focus groups content were rigorously analyzed by two team members. RESULTS: The interview sample was composed of 25 relatives and of 16 individuals with a first stroke whereas the three focus group sample size varied from 5 to 7 participants. Four main themes emerged: (1) overemphasis of caregiving role with an unclear legitimacy of relative to also be a client; (2) communication as a key issue to foster respect and a family-centered approach; (3) availability and attitudes of health professionals as a facilitator or a barrier to a family-centered approach; and (4) constant presence of relatives as a protective factor or creating a perverse effect. CONCLUSION/PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The needs of relatives are well known. The next step is to legitimize their right to receive services and to acknowledge the combined clinical and ethical value of including them post-stroke. Interdisciplinary health care approaches and communication skills should be addressed. | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-01-01 | A Rochette, E Racine, H Lefebvre, J Lacombe, J Bastien, Myriam Tellier | | Impact of mild stroke on the quality of life of spousesClients with mild stroke may present subtle deficits that have an impact on complex activities and roles. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceived quality of life of spouses, 3 months after the client with stroke was discharged to go home from acute care. A qalitative design based on a constructivist paradigm was used. Interviews were conducted with family members of the clients with mild stroke, 3 months after discharge. An interview guide was used and the audio content was transcribed, followed by a content analysis. In this study, eight interviews were conducted (mean age 56.9+/-9.2 years; men=2/8), and six essential themes emerged from the data. According to the participants, clients with mild stroke present sequelae that interfere with complex tasks (patient), increasing the burden on other family members who have to limit their personal activities (daily living). Sometimes, spouses were reported to act like a parent, which caused tensions in the relationship (conjugal relationship). Anxiety is related to the risk of stroke recurrence (relapse) and some family members present physical symptoms and a lack of energy (health). However, family members do not have access to services despite support from their relatives (services). The results of this exploratory study strongly suggest that even a 'mild' stroke has an impact on the daily lives of spouses and affects their quality of life. | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2011-01-01 | Myriam Tellier, A Rochette, H Lefebvre | | Use of an electronic pillbox by older adults with mild Alzheimer’s disease: Impact on medication administration and adherence Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2020-01-01 | | | Assembling a toolkit to measure geriatric rehabilitation outcomes Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2005-01-01 | | | Key dimensions of client satisfaction with assistive technology: A cross-validation of a Canadian measure in the Netherlands Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2011-01-01 | | | Responsiveness of Mobility, Daily Living, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Outcome Measures for Geriatric Rehabilitation Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-01-01 | | | A conceptual framework of outcomes for caregivers of assistive technology users. Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2009-01-01 | | | Coping strategies and social participation in older adults Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2009-01-01 | | | Connecting with clinicians: Opportunities to strengthen rehabilitation research Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2009-01-01 | | | Tracking mobility-related assistive technology in an outcomes study Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2008-01-01 | | | The wheelchair skills program: Relevance to the European setting2.1 INToCARE Université Laval, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2007-01-01 | | | Development of a conceptual framework for the assessment of geriatric rehabilitation outcomes Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2004-01-01 | | | The psychosocial impact of assistive devices scale (PIADS): Translation and preliminary psychometric evaluation of a Canadian-French version Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2002-01-01 | | | Reliability, validity, and applicability of the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0) for adults with multiple sclerosis Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2002-01-01 | | | The Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0): An overview and recent progress Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2002-01-01 | | | Item analysis of the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST) Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2000-01-01 | | | Introducing a tool for measuring the impact of power mobility use by older adults on their family caregivers2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-10-01 | | | Power mobility: Experiences of users over time2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-10-01 | | | Novel assistive technology intervention for older adults with disabilities and their informal caregivers: Results from a preliminary randomized control trial2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-10-01 | | | Older adults’ experiences of power mobility: A longitudinal mixed-methods study2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-06-01 | | | “There’s lots of compromises”: Experiences of Canadian power mobility users over time2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-06-01 | | | The impact of older adults' use of power wheelchairs on their informal caregivers2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-05-01 | | | How assistive technology use by older individuals with disabilities impacts their informal caregivers2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-05-01 | | | Experiences of power mobility use in older adults over time: Preliminary findings2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2011-11-01 | | | End-user involvement in the development and evaluation of the caregiver assistive technology outcome measure2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2011-08-01 | | | Impacts des aides techniques auprès des usagers et de leurs proches-aidants: Résultats préliminaires2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-10-01 | | | A conceptual model of assistive technology outcomes for older assistance users and their informal caregivers2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-10-01 | | | Impacts of assistive technology interventions on informal caregivers of adults with chronic physical impairments: A systematic review2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-10-01 | | | Measuring the effectiveness of assistive technology in community and home environments: Capturing the perspectives of users and caregivers2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of Ottawa, Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-05-01 | | | Impacts des aides techniques auprès des usagers et leurs proches aidants2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2009-11-01 | | | Using the International Classification of Functioning, disability and health (ICF) to reveal the participation aspirations of middle-aged and older adults who are receiving power mobility devices2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2008-08-01 | | | Effects of an assistive technology intervention on older adults with disabilities and their informal caregivers: an exploratory randomized controlled trial. (I received a CIHR-Institue of Ageing award for best post-doctoral poster for this research).2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2013-04-01 | | | How assistive technology use by individuals with disabilities impacts their caregivers: a systematic review of the research evidence.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-11-01 | | | Reliability and validity of the telephone administration of the wheelchair outcome measure (WhOM) for middle-aged and older users of power mobility devices.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 2.4 ATforCC Université de Montréal, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-06-01 | | | Web-Based Systematic Telemonitoring and Teletraining of User-CaregiverDyads After Provision of Assistive Technology : Conceptual Framework2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Université de Sherbrooke, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2015-10-24 | | | Exploratory Validation of a Multidimensional Power Mobility Outcomes Toolkit2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2015-09-01 | | | Provision of assistive technology: Partnering with caregivers for better outcomes2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 2.4 ATforCC Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of British Columbia, University of Ottawa, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-10-01 | | | Application of a Power Wheelchair Outcomes Toolkit2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-06-01 | | | Efficacité, sécurité et impact d’un programme d’entrainement des habiletés en fauteuil roulant motorisé : un essai contrôlé randomisé2.1 INToCARE Université Laval, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-05-01 | | | CanWheel: Une équipe de recherche pancanadienne au bénéfice des aînés qui utilisent un fauteuil roulant motorisé3.2 CoPILOT Université de Montréal, Université Laval, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-05-01 | | | Overview of a Power Wheelchair Outcomes Tool Kit Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2013-06-01 | | | Mixed Effects of Older Adults’Use of Power Wheelchairs on their Informal Caregivers2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2013-04-01 | | | Impact of powered mobility on older adults’ life space: the roles of environmental, personal and assistive device factors Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-12-01 | | | Dissatisfaction associated with power wheelchair use: a qualitative study Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-09-01 | | | Outlining powered mobility outcome profiles for middle-aged and older adults Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2010-09-01 | | | AGE-WELL – WP 2.1 INToCARE Poster presented by Michelle Plante at the 2015 Annual Conference and Annual General Meeting.2.1 INToCARE, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, Université Laval, Université de Montréal, University of Alberta, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2015-10-23 | | | Development of the Caregiver Assistive Technology Outcome Measure.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-11-01 | | | Efficacité, sécurité et impact d’un programme d’entraînement des habiletés en fauteuil roulant motorise: un essai contrôlé motorise.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-05-01 | | | Profil de mobilité des ainés qui utilisent un fauteuil roulant motorisé dans la communauté.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-05-01 | | | Description d’un fauteuil roulant motorisé intelligent (FRMI) et de son potentiel d’utilisation en situation écologique en centre d’achat.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-05-01 | | | The Natural History and Measurement of Power Wheelchair outcomes among new and experienced older adult power wheelchair users: A one-year longitudinal study.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2013-09-01 | | | Effectiveness of a Wheelchair Skills Training Program for Powered Wheelchair Users: A Randomized Controlled Trial.2.1 INToCARE University of British Columbia, Université Laval, Université de Montréal, KITE Research Institute at University Health Network | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2015-11-01 | Kirby RL, Bill Miller, Francois Routhier, Louise Demers, Alex Mihailidis, Polgar JM, Paula Rushton, Titus L, Smith C, McAllister M, Theriault C, Thompson K, Sawatzky B | | Translation into Arabic of the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with assistive Technology 2.0 and validation in orthosis users.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-12-01 | | | Exploring powered wheelchair users and their caregivers' perspectives on potential intelligent power wheelchair use: a qualitative study.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 3.2 CoPILOT Université de Montréal, McGill University, Caregiver, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2014-02-01 | Dahlia Kairy, Rushton PW, Philippe Archambault, Pituch E, Torkia C, El Fathi A, Paula Stone, Francois Routhier, Forget R, Louise Demers, Joelle Pineau, Gourdeau R | | Design and validation of an intelligent wheelchair towards a clinically-functional outcome.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS Université Laval, Université de Montréal, McGill University | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2013-01-01 | Boucher P, Atrash A, Kelouwani S, Honoré W*, Nguyen H, Villemure J, Francois Routhier, Cohen P, Louise Demers, Forget R, Joelle Pineau | | Effect of assistive technology interventions on users and their caregivers. 45th Annual Scientific and Educational Meeting of the Canadian Association on GerontologyMortenson, W. B., Jutai, J., Fuhrer, M., Bilkey, J., Plante, M., Deruyter, F., Demers, L. (October 20-22, 2016). Effect of assistive technology interventions on users and their caregivers. 45th Annual Scientific and Educational Meeting of the Canadian Association on Gerontology. Montreal, Québec, Canada. (poster presentation)2.1 INToCARE, 8.1 AT-SELECT University of British Columbia, University of Ottawa, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2016-10-21 | | | WP2 Promotional VideosSPECIAL WP2 PROJECT -
Alex Pysklywec is an experienced research assistant who worked with WP2 Core Project Leads as well as some of the short term project researchers to produce promotional videos representing the ongoing work of WP2. A total of 7 videos were made highlighting both the core projects, the nature of family caregiving, and 2 short term projects.
The work was completed by December 2017.
Louise Demers, one of the WP2 leads, oversaw and supported the project.
2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 2.3 CARE-RATE, 2.4 ATforCC, 2.5-S1 PCOACH, 2.6-CAT1 CWiC Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia, Université Laval, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Toronto Rehab Institute, University Health Network, University of Waterloo, University of Alberta, Toronto Rehab Institute/University Health Network | KTEE - Knowledge Mobilization | 2017-12-01 | Louise Demers, Alex Pysklywec, Ben Mortenson, Francois Routhier, Claudine Auger, Sara Ahmed, Jan Polgar, Frank Rudzicz, Jennifer Boger, Janet Fast, Jacquie Eales, Tilak Dutta, Andrew Magnaye | | The extent to which caregivers enhance the wheelchair skills capacity and confidence of power wheelchair users: a cross-sectional study.Objective
To test the hypothesis that caregivers enhance the wheelchair skills capacity and confidence of the power wheelchair users to whom they provide assistance, and to describe the nature of that assistance.
Design
Multicenter cross-sectional study.
Setting
Rehabilitation centers and communities.
Participants
Participants (N=152) included caregivers (n=76) and wheelchair users (n=76).
Interventions
None.
Main Outcome Measures
Version 4.3 of the Wheelchair Skills Test (WST) and the Wheelchair Skills Test-Questionnaire (WST-Q). For each of the 30 individual skills, we recorded data about the wheelchair user alone and in combination (blended) with the caregiver.
Results
The mean total WST capacity scores ± SD for the wheelchair users alone and blended were 78.1%±9.3% and 92.4%±6.1%, respectively, with a mean difference of 14.3%±8.7% (P<.0001). The mean WST-Q capacity scores ± SD were 77.0%±10.6% and 93.2%±6.4%, respectively, with a mean difference of 16.3%±9.8% (P<.0001). The mean WST-Q confidence scores ± SD were 75.5%±12.7% and 92.8%±6.8%, respectively, with a mean difference of 17.5%±11.7% (P<.0001). The mean differences corresponded to relative improvements of 18.3%, 21.0%, and 22.9%, respectively. The nature and benefits of the caregivers' assistance could be summarized in 7 themes (eg, caregiver provides verbal support [cueing, coaching, reporting about the environment]).
Conclusions
Caregivers significantly enhance the wheelchair skills capacity and confidence of the power wheelchair users to whom they provide assistance, and they do so in a variety of ways. These findings have significance for wheelchair skills assessment and training.2.1 INToCARE Université de Montréal, Université Laval, University of British Columbia | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2018-01-03 | "R.L. Kirby ", Paula Rushton, Francois Routhier, Louise Demers, "L. Titus ", "J. Miller-Polgar ", "C. Smith ", "M. McAllister ", "C. Theriault ", "K. Matheson ", "K. Parker ", "B. Sawatzky ", "D. Labbe ", Bill Miller | | A conceptual framework of outcomes for caregivers of assistive technology usersOBJECTIVE: To develop and validate the content of a conceptual framework concerning outcomes for caregivers whose recipients are assistive technology users. DESIGN: The study was designed in four stages. First, a list of potential key variables relevant to the caregivers of assistive technology users was generated from a review of the existing literature and semistructured interviews with caregivers. Second, the variables were analyzed, regrouped, and partitioned, using a conceptual mapping approach. Third, the key areas were anchored in a general stress model of caregiving. Finally, the judgments of rehabilitation experts were used to evaluate the conceptual framework. RESULTS: An important result of this study is the identification of a complex set of variables that need to be considered when examining the experience of caregivers of assistive technology users. Stressors, such as types of assistance, number of tasks, and physical effort, are predominant contributors to caregiver outcomes along with caregivers' personal resources acting as mediating factors (intervening variables) and assistive technology acting as a key moderating factor (effect modifier variable). CONCLUSIONS: Recipients' use of assistive technology can enhance caregivers' well being because of its potential for alleviating a number of stressors associated with caregiving. Viewed as a whole, this work demonstrates that the assistive technology experience of caregivers has many facets that merit the attention of outcomes researchers. Université de Montréal, University of Ottawa | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2009-01-01 | | | Development of the French Canadian version of the Montgomery Borgatta caregiver burden scale]Assessing the burden linked to caring for the frail elderly is becoming an important issue in rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to translate/validate the Montgomery Borgatta Caregiver Burden Scale into French for use in Canada. This easy-to-use questionnaire evaluates aspects of burden such as objective, subjective stress and subjective demand burden. The instrument underwent: 1) parallel translation/back-translation; 2) expert's committee review leading to an experimental version; 3) pre-test to ensure wording clarity; and 4) study of psychometric properties with bilingual subjects (n = 27) and French-speaking subjects (n = 18). Results suggest that convergence between the original and the French versions is satisfactory for two of the three sub-scales of the MBCBS (ICC 0.83 & 0.96). The test-retest stability coefficients are also very good (ICC of 0.92 & 0.91), as is internal consistency (0.90, 0.66). The objective burden sub-scale correlates moderately with a measure of functional autonomy (SMAF). Results for the subjective burden scale linked to demand are, however, inadequate. All in all, two of the three sub-scales of the French-Canadian version of the Montgomery Borgatta Caregiver Burden Scale demonstrate adequate psychometric properties, thereby favouring its use in geriatric rehabilitation. Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2008-01-01 | | | How assistive technology use by individuals with disabilities impacts their caregivers: a systematic review of the research evidenceInformal caregivers are a critical yet frequently unacknowledged part of the healthcare system. It is commonly presumed that providing assistive technology will decrease the burden of their care provision; however, no review has evaluated the evidence behind this assumption. Therefore, a systematic review was undertaken to evaluate evidence of the impact of assistive technology use by care recipients on their informal caregivers. Data sources included EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, PsychINFO, PubMed, and active researchers in this area. Twenty-two studies met the specified inclusion criteria. Collectively, the findings suggest that assistive technology use helps caregivers by diminishing some of the physical and emotional effort entailed in supporting individuals with disability. However, confidence in this causal connection is limited because of the study designs that were used. This undermines the understanding of the impacts of assistive technology use on the users' informal caregivers. Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2012-01-01 | W B Mortenson, Louise Demers, M J Fuhrer, J W Jutai, J Lenker, F DeRuyter | | Caregivers’ experiences with the selection and use of assistive technologyQualitative data from a mixed-methods clinical trial are used to examine caregivers’ experiences with the selection and use of assistive technology to facilitate care recipients’ independence. Through a thematic analysis of interviews from 27 caregivers, three broad themes were identified. “A partial peace of mind” described the generally positive psychological impacts from assistive technology, mainly reduced stress and a shift in caregiving labour from physical tasks to a monitoring role. “Working together” explored the caregivers’ experiences of receiving assistive technology and the sense of collaboration felt by caregivers during the intervention process. Finally, “Overcoming barriers“ addressed two impediments to accessing assistive technology: lack of funding and appointment wait times for service providers. The findings suggest that assistive technology provision by prescribers plays a beneficial role in the lives of caregivers, but access to such benefits can be hampered by contextual constraints.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, University of Ottawa, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2018-09-16 | | | The effectiveness of Tai Chi in slowing the progression of early stages of dementia in the elderly: A systematic literature reviewThis systematic review examines intervention studies using Tai Chi in the early stages of dementia to determine the effectiveness of Tai Chi for the short-term improvement of cognitive functions for elderly persons with the disease. Methods: A keyword search was done in PubMed/MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), and Cochrane Library databases using keywords such as Tai Chi, Dementia*, and cognition. A secondary search strategy consisting of a manual search in the reference lists of selected articles was also used. Results: A total of nine studies were reviewed including six randomized controlled trials, two non-randomized controlled trials, and one non-randomized prospective study. The studies suggest Tai Chi has impacts on global cognitive functions, visuospatial skills, semantic memory, verbal learning/memory, and self-perception of memory. The effects of Tai Chi on overall cognition for people with mild cognitive impairment are comparable to those in control groups which engaged in exercise. Conclusion: The studies reviewed affirm the potential of Tai Chi to improve short-term cognitive function in the elderly at the onset of dementia.Other Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2019-05-08 | | | Longitudinal Outcomes Among Family Caregiver's of Power Mobility UsersObjective
To examine the change over 1 year in the burden, wheelchair skills, social support, social participation, and mental health of family caregivers providing assistance to older adult powered wheelchair users.
Design
Longitudinal study.
Setting
Community.
Participants
Participants (N=35) included family caregivers (mean age ± SD=63.7±10.2y) who provided at least 2 hours of general care per week for a powered wheelchair user.
Intervention
Not applicable.
Main Outcome Measures
The Power Mobility Caregiver Assistive Technology Outcome Measure (frequency of care and subjective burden), the Wheelchair Skills Test Questionnaire for caregivers (wheelchair skills), the Interpersonal Support Evaluation List-6 (social support), the Late-Life Function and Disability Instrument (social participation), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (mental health). Measures were taken at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and a linear mixed model was used to assess changes over time in the outcomes.
Results
The results showed that the caregivers helped on average with 3 powered wheelchair-related activities and 10 other caregiving activities. They also experienced moderate subjective burden and social participation and were within the normal range for depression and anxiety. Moreover, those outcomes remained stable over the 1-year study period. However, the wheelchair skills scores showed significant changes over time, as the scores improved during the first 6 months of the study.
Conclusion
Given that previous research indicated that subjective burden tends to decline over time among caregivers, the findings of stability in this study may reflect increasing needs among this population of caregivers, who may benefit from additional support and interventions. This would need further consideration.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 8.1 AT-SELECT, 2.4 ATforCC University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2018-10-26 | | | Positive experiences and resources of caregivers of powered wheelchair users: a qualitative inquiry2.1 INToCARE University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2019-04-23 | | | Recognizing carers in Canada and understanding their barriers to technology adoptionWorking on behalf of WP2, Jacquie Eales and Janet Fast, with input from Louise Demers and Michelle Plante, wrote a blog post for the APPTA web site. The blog was prepared for and posted on April 2, 2019 to recognize National Carers Day in Canada and highlight the collective work of WP2 (and DATCares) in understanding and addressing carers' barriers to technology adoption.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 2.3 CARE-RATE, 2.4 ATforCC, DATcares, AWCRP-2020-17 University of Alberta, Université de Montréal, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal | KTEE - Knowledge Mobilization | 2019-04-02 | | | Être le proche aidant d’une personne âgée vivant avec des incapacités : Résultats préliminaires d’une étude qualitativeInvited short paper in a non peer-reviewed journal 2.1 INToCARE University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal, Simon Fraser University, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2019-06-26 | | | Using technology to support caregivers of older people with dementiaThis article was undertaken as part of a WP2 KTEE initiative in year 5 on behalf of its four core research projects. We submitted an article for The Conversation Canada, which was subsequently published.
Story pitch: Caregiving takes a significant toll on the nearly half million Canadians caring for a family member or friend with dementia. While research and innovation are essential for effective implementation of the Dementia Strategy for Canada, so too is getting the right balance between ‘tech’ and ‘touch’.
2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 2.3 CARE-RATE, 2.4 ATforCC, AWCRP-2020-17 University of Alberta, Université de Montréal, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal | KTEE - Knowledge Mobilization | 2019-09-16 | | | The positive effects of caregiving for family caregivers of older adults: A scoping reviewThe negative social, psychological, physical health, and employment-related effects of caregiving on caregivers are well documented; however, positive effects have received less attention. A scoping review was conducted to synthesize and thematically analyze the results of 24 studies published between 2000 and 2018 regarding positive effects of family caregiving of older adults. Our analysis revealed that positive effects of caregiving are embedded in complex, interconnected relationships. Identified themes were: 1) In relationship with one’s self (the caregiver) described positive effects such as personal growth; 2) In relationship to the care-recipient described positive effects such as a deepened dyadic relationship, and 3) Relationships with others described positive effects such as those derived from new care-related relationships. Seeing the positive effects of caregiving as relational and in relationship may shape environmental factors, as defined by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, such as the development of assistive devices and social policy.2.1 INToCARE, 2.2 MovIT-PLUS, 2.4 ATforCC Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal, Université de Montréal, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2020-02-04 | | | Interviews with family caregivers of older adults: Their experiences of care and the integration of assistive technology in care2.1 INToCARE University of British Columbia, Université de Montréal, Simon Fraser University, Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, University of Montreal, Université Laval | Scientific Excellence - Advancing Knowledge | 2019-03-04 | |
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