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Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

1995

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Graduate Nursing

First Advisor

Margaret Hegge

Keywords

older people home care, older people functional assessment, older people psychology

Abstract

This descriptive, longitudinal research study investigated the difference in functional ability and hope in frail elderly home health clients in the Midwest. Data was collected through structured interviews at two weeks post-hospitalization and at three months. The Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living, the Folstein Mini Mental Status Exam, the Herth Hope Index, and a Demographic Information Form were used to survey the study participants. Paired Tests, Mann Whitney U, and cross tabulations were used to statistically analyze the data. Findings revealed that there was no significant difference between level of hope and functional ability from two weeks to three months. Factor 3, Interconnectedness, on the Herth Hope Index did approach significance. A strong descriptive level of spiritual faith, community and family support was found. Results of this study may be used to assist researchers and geriatric professionals in devising methodologies to examine outcomes of the frail elderly. Demographic information replicates prior studies involving the frail elderly.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Older people -- Home care
Older people -- Functional assessment
Older people -- Psychology

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

116

Publisher

South Dakota State University

Rights

Copyright © 1995 Arlene Horner. All rights reserved

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