Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Ph.D.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Degree Granting Department

Communication Sciences and Disorders

Major Professor

Amber Gum, Ph.D.

Co-Major Professor

Carla VandeWeerd, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Paul Stiles, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Kyaien Conner, Ph.D.

Keywords

patient-centered care, patient engagement, older adults

Abstract

This dissertation is comprised of an introduction to the topic, three academic papers, and a final chapter discussing the implications of the findings. Its primary objective is to examine strategies to engage older adults in proactive health interventions, enhancing their participation and satisfaction within healthcare systems. Each academic paper utilized distinct data sources and research methods. Paper 1's survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlations to understand older adults' engagement with academic medical centers. Paper 2 used thematic analysis of focus group data to identify key themes in older adults' perspectives on novel health services. Paper 3 used pre- and post-treatment survey data, employing T-tests, chi-square, and ANCOVA models to evaluate the effectiveness of a short-term behavioral health program. Results from Paper 1's survey data revealed that older adults have specific needs and concerns regarding academic medical centers, emphasizing the importance of respectful and responsive healthcare services. Findings from Paper 2’s focus groups indicated that older adults value patient-centered care and highlighted factors influencing their decision-making process when engaging with new healthcare services. The analysis of survey data in Paper 3 demonstrated significant improvements for older adults who completed the short-term behavioral health program, while identifying potential factors contributing to program dropout. These insights underscore the importance of integrating older adults' perspectives into healthcare service design and delivery. By understanding their needs and preferences, healthcare providers and policymakers can develop strategies to enhance older adults' engagement and satisfaction with health services, promoting better health outcomes and quality of life.

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