Helping Older Residents Remain in Subsidized Housing: Predictive Validity of the Live Well at Home-Rapid Screen (LWAH-RS) in a Real-World Application

J Gerontol Soc Work. 2022 Feb-Mar;65(2):188-200. doi: 10.1080/01634372.2021.1947430. Epub 2021 Jul 1.

Abstract

Common Bond Communities (CBC) is a nonprofit organization that provides housing for low-income individuals and families. CBC utilized the Live Well at Home-Rapid Screen (LWAH-RS) to identify the risks for nursing home admission or assisted living entry among housing residents aged 60 or above. Drawing data from 842 assessments, we studied how well the LWAH-RS predicted moves to nursing homes or assisted living settings. Cox regression models showed that the LWAH-RS did predict which residents would move to a care setting. Every 1-point higher in the LWAH-RS assessment score was associated with a 38% higher risk of moving to a higher-level care facility due to health issues. Given this demonstrated predictive validity in a real-world setting, we suggest more systematic approaches for housing practitioners to combat low assessment completion rates and unclear protocols for actions based on the scores.

Keywords: Nursing home; assisted living facilities; health; independence; long-term care.

MeSH terms

  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Humans
  • Nursing Homes*
  • Public Housing*