A new NSM SGS study highlights how health care and community partnerships can improve well-being and connection for older adults with complex needs.
North Simcoe Muskoka Specialized Geriatric Services (NSM SGS), a regional program with Waypoint as its lead agency, has published its first-ever study, marking a significant research milestone for the program.
The study, titled “Integrated care and community partnerships: Promoting equitable social health opportunities for older adults living with complex health conditions,” appeared June 12 in the International Journal of Integrated Care.
In addition to being a research milestone, the publication showcases to a global audience how the organization is advancing population health, integrated care and innovative programming for older adults living with complexity and/or frailty.
The co-authors — Jenna Davis, Dr. Katie Bingham, Sandra Easson-Bruno and Dr. Salinda Horgan — evaluated a gardening workshop series that was offered in partnership between NSM SGS, Adult Day Programs (ADPs) and Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery, a local gardening centre. This Integrated Care and Community Partnership (ICCP) showed the impact of bridging health care services and community organizations to support the unique needs of community-dwelling older adults living with complex health conditions.
The 25 workshops, held bi-monthly from July 2023 to February 2024, attracted 325 participants from five ADPs in the region. Results showed 94 per cent of attendees found the sessions interesting, and 93 per cent reported feeling good about themselves afterward. Mood improvements were statistically significant, and interviews revealed themes of social engagement, personal meaning and a renewed sense of purpose.
“By bringing together health care, social care and our community to better support the care of older adults, organizations like Bradford Greenhouses can play an important role in population health and help support older adults to age in place in their local communities.”
Jenna Davis, Manager, Geriatric Mental Health (Community)
Staff from partner organizations also reported benefits, including increased collaboration, skill development and enhanced care delivery.
Dr. Horgan emphasized that improving access to social health is a proactive strategy to enhance well-being and optimize resource use: “A comprehensive approach that unites physical, mental and social health is essential,” she said. “This study shows that health care organizations can lead the way in building these integrated models.”
As NSM SGS celebrates this research milestone, the study is paving the way for new projects that connect health care and community services to improve outcomes for older adults, including one focused on increasing care partner respite opportunities — and signals the growing role of ICCPs in supporting the complex needs of an aging population.
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Older adults are one of our most valuable community resources, requiring investments in a future that embraces aging. Donations to support programming can improve the lives of seniors and their care partners, and help health care teams provide specialized services and care in North Simcoe and Muskoka.