An evidence-based technology solution committed to ongoing research
Australian Catholic University & Uniting NSW ACT
Reducing dementia behaviours and improving staff job satisfaction
Independent research conducted by Australian Catholic University across 64 aged care homes concluded that Resparke had a positive impact in dementia care. Key findings include:
- 70% reduction in observed dementia behaviours
- 80% of staff reported improved job satisfaction
- 65% believed would lead to a reduction in the use of psychotropics
- 94% acceptance rate of headphones
The Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network
Improving mental health of aged care residents
Resparke collaborated with the NSW Primary Health Network to pilot the program across 5 Aged Care homes in the Hunter Region to ascertain the ability of the program to improve the mental health of individuals in residential aged care. Based on the success of the initial program we are now working with 30 PHN-funded Aged Care homed in this region. Key findings include:
- 75% of residents with Cornell Depression Scale (CDS) scores above 10 decreased their CDS score after using the program for 8 weeks.
- 78% improvement in apathy
- 65% reduction in agitation
- 79% reduction of aggression
- 85% reduction in vocal disruption
ACU pilot study in specialised dementia unit in NZ
Reduction in agitation and verbal behaviours and clinically meaningful reduction of PRNs
Australian Catholic University completed a 5-week pilot study with 22 residents in a New Zealand Care home.
Most of the participants had severe cognitive impairments (73%) and psychiatric comorbidities (68%). Residents utilised the program for 2hrs per week and data was collected by qualitative surveys from staff and a quantitative review of medication charts. Key findings presented at the International Dementia Conference 2022 were:
- 70% reduction in agitation or verbal behaviours reported by staff
- 12% reduction in pro re nata psychotropics during the trial period which is categorised as a clinically meaningful reduction
SA Health 2020 Palliative Care Grants Program
Increasing mood, decreasing anxiety and connecting loved ones.
Resparke conducted a palliative care pilot with a multidisciplinary team at Southern Cross Care Pines Lodge residential aged care home in SA funded by SA Health Palliative Care grants.
- 250 sessions delivered in a 3-month period to 20 palliating residents
- Reduction of anxiety and agitation
- Increase in mood and connection to loved ones
