Module 7: Optimizing Health Systems in LTC
183 7.6.2 Geriatric Program Partners
Canadian LTC characteristics:
- Provinces and territories across Canada have similar statistics with respect to age, dementia, comorbidities, complexities, medications
- Canadian Institute on Health Information published Quality Indicators in LTC, included in this are use of antipsychotic medications, falls, and restraints
- Dementia in LTC has the following challenges: responsive behaviours, falls, increased ADL need, wandering, delirium
Ontario LTC homes[1]:
- Approximately 80% of individuals in LTC have dementia.
- The average age in LTC is 83 years old.
- In the past 10 years there has been a 40% increase of individuals entering LTC with designated high care needs.
British Columbia LTC[2]:
- Approximately 64% of individuals in LTC have dementia
- The average age in LTC is 84 years old
- Percent of residents with physically abusive behaviour is 9%
Provinces and territories have various specialized geriatric supports for the complex needs of seniors in LTC[3]. This includes educational programs, consultative services, behavioural outreach or virtual programs.