New methods of care are required to meet the needs of people with dementia and their caregivers. The Namaste Care™ program provides a person-centered approach through meaningful activities and loving touch. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of residents, staff, and family involved in the Namaste Care™ program at a long-term care facility in the United States. A descriptive approach was used to interview 14 staff members. The findings revealed six themes: peaceful sanctuary, relating their way, transforming experiences, connections and community, positive moments, and awakened to the possibilities. Results suggest that Namaste Care™ may be useful for individuals no longer able to participate in traditional long-term care setting activities. Further studies are indicated to confirm the impact on hospital readmissions, therapy enhancement, and medication use in relationship to Namaste Care™ program participation.
Long-term care facilities seek ways to enhance the quality of life for residents. Cycling Without Age (CWA), a new international cycling program, is gaining momentum for older adults. This study explored resident riders’ and trishaw pilots’ lived experience of their participation in the CWA program using a qualitative approach at a long-term care facility in the United States. Researchers conducted 27 face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with riders and pilots. For resident riders, the three themes identified included (a) breath of fresh air; (b) wave, chat, and remember; and (c) sit back and relax. Two themes were identified for the pilots: (a) change in frame of mind, and (b) mental and physical rewards. CWA can be as a new strategy for person-centered care. The CWA program provides nursing an opportunity to advocate, recommend, and obtain an order for residents to participate in the program.
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