Amy K Chesser
Wichita State University, USA
Title: Assessing health literacy and stroke symptomatology in older adults
Biography
Biography: Amy K Chesser
Abstract
Statement of the Problem: Stroke in the Elderly: Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability with approximately 795,000 strokes occurring in the United States each year, with nearly 75 percent of all strokes occurring in those 65 years and older. Multiple studies suggest that stroke treatment is delayed due to the failure of symptom recognition by the patient, family, or general bystanders with approximately 60% of stroke-related deaths occur outside the hospital setting. Compounding this problem is the fact that many stroke patients are still being transported by private vehicle instead of a 911 activation, further delaying treatment. Additionally, low health literacy continues to be a significant problem for persons over age 65.
Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The purpose of our research was to provide support for a multi-disciplinary approach to stroke education and prevention. Through this research project, the study team implemented an experimentally-designed knowledge and opinions pre- and post-test and six weeks follow up assessment. The study participants included three, separate groups in three study phases: 1) staff and team members at a community senior center, 2) older adults (age 65 and older) living at the senior center, and 3) family members or caretakers of older adults. This was an experimental design, feasibility/pilot study using a convenience sample of participants from a Midwest senior living community.
Findings: Findings from this study are pending until data collection is complete in May of 2018. Conclusion & Significance: We hypothesize that multilevel education and training in an older adult living community will increase positive behavior attributes for contacting emergency services in the event of a possible stroke.