Is it possible to have a positive impact on the quality of life (QOL) of nursing home residents? This pilot project tested a goal-focused intervention designed to improve QOL. In a sample of nursing home residents with cognitive impairments, investigators compared outcomes of residents who experienced the intervention as pairs with those who experienced it as singles. To various degrees, all 16 male residents (mean age = 66.6) who participated in the project attained individualized goals. Pre- to post-intervention, mean ratings for QOL measures increased for the total group, with the exception of perceived health, which decreased slightly. Pairs had greater frequency of increased ratings than singles. Further, nurses reported pairs initiated social and helping behaviors more frequently than singles.
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