Fostering Positive Care Interactions in Assisted Living

BEHAVIORAL

FPCI-AL

Following randomization, champions and stakeholder team members from the communities will be identified. The investigators will recommend the following individuals to be members of the stakeholder team: assisted living administrator, nurse manager, nursing assistant, and activity and rehabilitation staff as available. Following the initial team meeting, the research facilitator will work with each treatment assisted living community for eight hours weekly during months one and two, and then for four hours weekly for the remaining four months using a face-to-face approach to implement the four components of the FPCI-AL.

BEHAVIORAL

Education Only (EO)

Communities randomized to education only will receive the same education as provided in FPCI-AL step two via an established PowerPoint. Delivery format will match community preferences (e.g., online or in-person) for pragmatic reasons and to facilitate the education process.

Modified Quality of Interactions Scale

Time frame: Baseline, 4 months, 6 months

Quality of care interactions will be measured using the Modified Quality of Interactions Scale, an observational tool that measures interaction characteristics and quality using a quantified scoring system. It records the care interaction location, type of care activity, and type of care provider in care (e.g., nurse). The total score ranges from 0 to 7, with higher scores indicating better, more positive interactions.

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.

Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.

Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.

Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?

When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.

Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.

How long does a clinical trial last?

Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.