Age Self Care, a program to improve aging in place through group learning and incremental behavior change: Preliminary data.

BACKGROUND: Few programs exist to support aging in place for older adults. Age Self Care is a novel program providing older adults with evidence-based information using group sessions embedded within the structure of a community-based organization (CBO) to facilitate behavior change and support aging in place. We report on a preliminary study of Age Self Care conducted in collaboration between the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Division of Geriatrics, At Home With Growing Older (AHWGO), and San Francisco Village (SF Village).

METHODS: We recruited middle-income, community-dwelling adults aged 65+ from university outpatient clinics. Participants attended eight 90-min, video-based group sessions and enrolled in SF Village, a non-profit mutual support organization for older adults. Data collection included direct observations and a participant focus group. We used rapid analysis methods informed by the COM-B model (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior Change) to assess behavior change.

RESULTS: Fourteen participants completed the 8-week study (15 enrolled, 1 withdrew). Average attendance was 81% throughout the program. We found that 14 participants made concrete changes to optimize the ability to remain at home during the program. For example, participants engaged in evidence-based falls risk reduction activities such as decluttering and improving lighting. We identified three facilitators to behavior change. First, Age Self Care promoted self-management-the day-to-day management of health and chronic conditions by individuals-through education and community-based resources. Second, peer support empowered participants to take charge of their health, home environment, and social networks. Third, the online platform created a community and was a catalyst for social opportunity. We identified one non-modifiable barrier: pre-existing financial barriers hindered some behavior change.

CONCLUSIONS: In this preliminary study, Age Self Care facilitated behavior change, including minor home modifications, fall risk reduction, and engagement in social networks, all of which support aging in place.