Preserving the links of LTC residents with cognitive disorders with their loved ones in the context of a pandemic: evaluation of the implementation and effects of virtual and in-person interventions

Google translate: In Quebec, nearly 70% of deaths linked to COVID-19 are people living in long-term care facilities (LTCF). The restrictions imposed to reduce the transmission of the virus have deleterious effects on the elderly and consequences on family caregivers. In order to mitigate the negative effects, different strategies are used to maintain contact with relatives and thus promote protective actions for the mental and physical state of the elderly. However, the evaluation of the implementation and effects of innovative interventions in the context of a pandemic in elderly people with cognitive impairment have not been studied to date in Canada. In collaboration with 5 partner LTCFs, the goal of the project is to assess the implementation process, the viability and the acceptability of interventions aimed at favoring the presence of relatives (in person or virtually), as well as the effects on families. residents, their relatives and related costs. An evaluative research quote is preferred. A multiple case study will be used to describe the reality of the settings and the target actors, grasp the complex relationships between the different factors, document the degree and the variability of the implantation in the different settings and their results. Residents with cognitive disorders, their family caregiver and members of the care team will be recruited from each setting. Interventions to preserve contacts with loved ones and supported by the living environment can reduce the repercussions of isolation and have a considerable impact on anxiety, cognitive and behavioral symptoms and quality of life. By giving a voice to seniors, relatives and caregivers, documentation of acceptability will add evidence that tailored, humane interventions are viable and relevant in LTCFs.]