Preserving the connection of ESLD 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

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