The role of social reinforcement in the maintenance of short-term effects after a self-management intervention for frail housebound seniors with arthritis

Can J Aging. 2012 Jun;31(2):195-207. doi: 10.1017/S0714980812000025. Epub 2012 May 9.

Abstract

Following the program I'm Taking Charge of My Arthritis!, study participants reported fewer functional limitations, less helplessness, and better coping effectiveness than did controls. This study examined the maintenance of these effects and the role of social reinforcement in maintaining benefits eight months post-intervention. The study collected information (1) at baseline (n=125); (2) two months later, before randomization (pre-intervention); (3) two months post-randomization (post-intervention 1); and (4) ten months post-randomization (post-intervention 2) (n=80). We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing three groups: a control group, intervention group without social reinforcement, and intervention group with social reinforcement after the program. A multilevel analysis revealed that intervention participants with social reinforcement following the program continued to report significantly fewer functional limitations and greater coping effectiveness compared to intervention group participants without social reinforcement. This research provides preliminary evidence for the value of additional contact with frail housebound seniors post-intervention for maintaining the intervention benefits.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Arthritis / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Frail Elderly*
  • Homebound Persons*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Reinforcement, Social*
  • Self Care / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome