Wenru WANG
National University of Singapore, Singapore
Title: Effectiveness of Salutogenic Healthy Aging Program Embracement (SHAPE) for elderly-only households in Singapore: A study protocol
Biography
Biography: Wenru WANG
Abstract
Background: There has been increasing evidence that elderly living alone or with another elderly are at higher risk for poorer health outcomes. However, little attention has been given to these elderly to engage in health-promoting and risk preventive actions. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Salutogenic Healthy Aging Program Embracement (SHAPE) intervention for elderly-only households in Singapore. Methods: The Salutogenesis model, which focuses on positive well-being and health optimization instead of the traditional biomedical model on pathogenesis, underpins this study. This single-blinded randomized control trial will be conducted in the west of Singapore, for elderly ≥ 65 years old living alone or with another elderly. While participants in the control group receive usual care offered in the community, elderly in the experimental group receive the SHAPE intervention, a 12-week community-based program comprising of at least 2 home visits, 10 weekly group-based activity sessions and a SHAPE health-promotion booklet. Outcome measures include sense of coherence, self-efficacy, quality of life, health-promoting behavior and other health-related outcomes. Data will be collected at four time-points: baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months. Individual qualitative interviews will also be conducted for elderly receiving SHAPE intervention to explore their views on the program. Conclusion: The SHAPE intervention seeks to identify, equip and strengthen resources in elderly-only households, encouraging the adaptation of health-promoting and risk-preventing actions. It targets on a vulnerable group of older population to help them cope with health, age-related stressors and promote independent living in the comfort of their homes.