Technology use in long-term care during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study of paid employees' experiences in Western Canada.

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments across the world implemented processes and policies to limit the spread of COVID-19, especially in long-term care (LTC) homes. This led to changes in technology use for persons living in LTC homes, their families and friends, as well as the paid workforce dedicated to caring for them.

Objective: The study describes the role of technology and its impact on the experiences of LTC staff working in northern and rural areas in Western Canada during COVID-19.

The prevalence and risk factors of apathy among the Canadian long-term care residents with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

Background: Apathy is a prevalent and debilitating neuropsychiatric symptom among persons living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, particularly those residing in long-term care facilities (LTCF). Despite its profound effects on the quality of life for both residents and their caregivers, apathy remains underrecognized and poorly understood in the context of dementia care.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and biopsychosocial characteristics of apathy among newly admitted residents with dementia in Canadian LTCF using an Apathy Index derived from the interRAI Minimum Data Set (MDS) 2.

A holistic approach to supporting death in the home: Implementation of a home hospice program in a northern community-A study protocol.

Introduction: To enhance support for individuals at end of life to die at home, a new community-driven home-based hospice program was developed-Home Hospice. This wholistic hospice care program, co-designed by hospice care staff, community end-of-life care providers, researchers, and health systems decision-makers, will provide around the clock care to clients and their families.

Methods And Analysis: This mixed methods study, guided by a process evaluation framework, will use secondary client and caregiver data collected as part of regular Home Hospice program processes, as well as primary interview data collected from caregivers at least three months post-death of the client and from hospice staff and volunteers involved in the Home Hospice program.

Investigating the Prevalence and Predictors of Apathy among the Canadian Long-Term Care Residents: A Secondary Data Analysis.

Background: In long-term care facilities (LTCF), apathy is a prevalent issue, leading to cognitive decline, functional impairment, and increased mortality risk. Despite its significance, apathy often remains underrecognized and undermanaged in these settings. Recognizing and addressing the predictors of apathy is critical for early intervention and improved care outcomes.