SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Improving Care Transitions for Dementia Caregivers: A Qualitative Study

Pdf Summary

This qualitative study explored how to improve care transitions for caregivers of Veterans with dementia. Researchers interviewed 15 licensed health professionals at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center to identify caregiver resources and training needs during hospital-to-home transitions.<br /><br />Health professionals emphasized that hospital admissions are a key opportunity to engage caregivers, since outcomes for people with dementia depend partly on caregiver health and preparedness. They recommended including caregivers more directly in discharge planning and education, especially around medications, medical tasks, and follow-up appointments. They also highlighted the need to inform caregivers during the hospital stay about available VA services and support options.<br /><br />A major theme was the need for dementia-specific training before discharge. Suggested topics included the basics of dementia, disease progression, and strategies for managing behavioral symptoms. Participants also stressed the importance of post-discharge services that provide practical help, relief, and respite for caregivers.<br /><br />One of the strongest recommendations was to add a “caregiver navigator” — a trained staff member who could meet caregivers in the hospital, follow up after discharge, assist with problem-solving, provide education, and connect families to VA and community resources. This role was seen as a promising way to bridge the gap between hospital and home.<br /><br />Overall, the study found broad support across health professions for improving caregiver involvement, education, and post-discharge support to better care for hospitalized veterans with dementia.

Asset Subtitle

Molly J. Horstman

Meta Tag

Author List Alan B. Stevens, Crystal Guo, Mark E. Kunik, Molly J. Horstman

Category Research

Concept Caregiver

Concept Dementia

Concept Care Transition

Concept Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias

Concept Discharge Planning

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Presenting Author Molly J. Horstman

Track Transitions of Care

Keywords

dementia care transitions

caregiver support

Veterans health

hospital discharge planning

caregiver navigator

VA Medical Center

post-discharge education

dementia-specific training

hospital-to-home transition

caregiver resources

Caregiver

Dementia

Care Transition

Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias

Discharge Planning