Ageing and Health

Research Theme Leader
- FG423
- +852 2766 4097
- justina.liu@polyu.edu.hk
Members
- GH528
- +852 2766 5587
- angela.ym.leung@polyu.edu.hk
- GH526
- +852 2766 4534
- daphne.cheung@polyu.edu.hk
- FG421
- +852 2766 5622
- patrick.kor@polyu.edu.hk
- GH504
- +852 2766 5648
- stefanos.tyrovolas@polyu.edu.hk
- A127
- +852 3400 3917
- jing-jing.su@polyu.edu.hk
- A127
- +852 2766 4696
- shan-shan.wang@polyu.edu.hk
- A127
- +852 3400 3917
- yan-ivy.zhao@polyu.edu.hk
- HJ541
- +852 2766 6542
- lily.yw.ho@polyu.edu.hk
- FG510
- +852 2766 5588
- shirley.lo@polyu.edu.hk
- HJ541
- +852 2766 6389
- phyllis.pang@polyu.edu.hk
- GH507
- +852 2766 6391
- rainbow.l.p.lee@polyu.edu.hk
Key researchers:
Prof. Angela YM Leung (Professor)
Dr Justina Liu (Associate Professor)
Dr Mimi Tse (Associate Professor)
Dr Rick Kwan (Assistant Professor)
Dr Simon Lam (Assistant Professor)
Dr Daphne Cheung (Assistant Professor)
Dr Claudia Lai (Honorary Professor)
Key studies
Over the last 15 years, the team developed key research studies in the care of persons with cognitive impairment and their caregivers, supporting the development and implementation of best practices in the care of people with mild cognitive impairment (PwMCI) or dementia (PwD), and the health needs of their caregivers (CA).
Health profile and care needs of persons with cognitive impairment
We have identified a specific intervention for persons with cognitive impairment and tested its efficacy. Collaborating with the Hong Kong Horticulture Association, our team conducted an exploratory study to assess the preliminary effect of horticultural therapy on emotion and behaviour among PIDs (Dr Rick Kwan). This work was extended to frail and pre-frail older adults in nursing homes (Dr Rick Kwan).
Health literacy research in dementia literacy
Knowing the citizen’s health literacy of dementia and their intention to seek information to support PwD is the first step in health promotion and public education. Five population-based surveys were conducted in Cambodia, the Philippines, Fiji, China and Hong Kong respectively (Prof. Angela Leung). The findings informed the respective governments to develop relevant policy and practices to educate the general public how to support PwD and CA. Lai’s research in reminiscence has also effects on global and local practices in Hong Kong.
Lai and team conducted a Cochrane Review titled ‘Special care units for dementia individuals with behavioural problems’ to show that caring for PwD should be normalized (suggesting the insignificant benefits of special care units for PwD) and this was cited by international researchers for 97 times.
Interventional studies to support the Care to Persons with Dementia
A series of studies were implemented to assess the feasibility and efficacy of the interventions for PwD. We tested the efficacy of acupressure on agitation and stress level among PwD (Dr Rick Kwan, Dr Claudia Lai) and showed that music-with-movement intervention was applicable to PwD at moderate level of dementia (Dr Daphne Cheung). A series of research was conducted in pain management for PwD using ‘observational pain’ concept. Feasibility and acceptability studies were conducted prior to the development of the comprehensive Observational Pain Management Protocol (OPMPl). A randomized controlled trial was carried out in 2014 with the residents with severe advanced dementia in 17 nursing homes, and this study showed the effectiveness of this protocol (Dr Justina Liu, Dr Claudia Lai).
[R1] Lai, C.K.Y., Ho, L., Kwan, R.Y.C., Fung, C., & Mak, Y.W. (2016). An exploratory study on the effect of horticultural therapy for adults with intellectual disabilities. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 26(2), 3-15.
[R2] Lai, C.K.Y., Kwan, R.Y.C., Lo, S.K.L., Fung, C.Y., Lau, J.K., & Tse, M.M.Y. (2018). Effects of horticulture on frail and pre-frail nursing home residents: a randomized controlled trial. JAMDA, doi: 10.1016/j.jamda.2018.04.002 (Impact Factor: 5.775)
[R5] Liu, J.Y.W. & Lai, L.K.C. (2014). Implementation of an observational pain management protocol to improve pain management for long-term institutionalized older care home residents with dementia: study protocol for a cluster-randomized controlled trial.BMC. Trials,15:78. doi:10.1186/1745-6215-15-78. [Impact factor: 1.969; Citation 13]
[R6] Lai CK, Chi I, Kaywer-Jones J. (2004). A randomized controlled trial of a specific reminiscence approach to promote the well-being of nursing home residents with dementia. International Psychogeriatriacs, 16(1), 33-49. doi: 10.1017/s1041610204000055.
[R7] Lai CKY, Yeung JHM, Mok V, Chi I. Special care units for dementia individuals with behavioural problems (Review). Cochrane Library. Cochrane Database of Systematic Review 2009, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD006470. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006470.pub2.https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD006470.pub2/epdf/abstract
[R8] Leung, A. Y. M., Molassiotis, A., Zhang, J., Deng, R., Liu, M., Van, I. K., Leung, I. S. H., Loke Yuen, A. (2020). Dementia literacy in the Greater Bay Area of China: Challenges and opportunities.International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH). Special Issue: Health literacy and Equity, 17(7),2511.https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17072511(Impact Factor: 2.468)
[R9] Leung, A. Y. M., Leung, S. F., Ho, G.W.K., Bressington, D., Molassiotis, A., Lam, C., Ligot, J., Valdez, L. P., Lazalita, A., Chhit, S., Chou, P., Valimaki, M. (2019). Dementia literacy in Western Pacific Countries: A mixed-method study.International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry,1-11. doi: 10.1002/gps.5197 (Impact Factor: 3.141)
1.Primary research-related impacts
Based on Lai’s work, Haslam and team (2010) proposed reminiscence to be considered as ‘social treatment’ to PwD in residential care settings and further investigated the crucial components of the treatment that should be included to make benefits happen [S1]. Lai’s work also contributed to the meta-analysis of the effect of cognitive stimulation therapy on cognition (The Lancet Commissions on Dementia Prevention, Intervention and Care, 2017) [S2] which eventually support the development of the guidelines and recommendations in Cognitive Stimulation Therapy. Leung and team conducted a comprehensive review of assessment and diagnosis of dementia, and this review was selected as the material of the HKMJ December 2019 Continuing Medical Education (CME) / Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for Fellows and non-Fellows of Hong Kong Academy of Medicine (HKAM), supporting at least 700 fellows in dementia training.
2.Service impacts
Lai, Kwan and team’s horticulture protocol was adopted by the Care and Attention Homes of the Pok Oi Hospital after the effectiveness report was released in a symposium [S3].
Horticulture was then adopted as routine practice in three residential care homes, namely Pok Oi Hospital Yeung Chun Pui Care and Attention Home, Pok Oi Hospital Tai Kwan Care and Attention Home and Pok Oi Hospital Jockey Club Care and Attention Home. Each home identifies a corner as the little garden, and 10 residents take care of the plants as their day-to-day event. Cheung and Lai’s music-with-movement protocol was disseminated to 89 caregivers and 86 staff of elderly community centres (ECC). Nine ECC eventually adopted the protocol in their practices, and a total of 804 persons with dementia participated in the music-with-movement activities in the centres. We arranged road shows and talks to reach 1,191 persons in the general public. By March 2018, 80 downloads of the e-book were recorded. We received funding of HK$1.35 million to convert the research protocol into practice operation formats in 2018. With this private donation, we trained 140 volunteers, 90 caregivers and 75 centre staff, bringing benefits to 75 families. Furthermore, Liu’s observational pain protocol was adopted by 8 nursing homes, bringing benefits to 133 residents and 340 caregivers.
To support the implementation of Lai’s reminiscence research in local practice in Hong Kong, she has trained 275 persons (85 university students, 160 social work/nursing practitioners and 30 older adults) in workshops and, after training, these participants provided reminiscence services for older adults in elderly community centres.
3.Societal impacts
Our research has drawn attention to the government officials and service providers. We were invited by the Government Radio Station to disseminate our research findings to the community via radio-broadcasting: 26 episodes were made in 2018, reaching 1,200 registered online course students and 100,000 public audiences (Prof. Angela Leung, Dr Justina Liu, Dr Rick Kwan, Dr Daphne Cheung). All 26 episodes were related to our research findings on cognitive impairment, namely recognition of cognitive impairment symptoms, use of technology to resolve daily living problem for older people with mild dementia, use of acupressure to manage agitation in older people with dementia, prevention of dementia, caregiving for people with dementia, use of mindfulness-based intervention to manage stress of caregivers of people with dementia [S4].
4.Policy impacts
We were commissioned by World Health Organization to conduct dementia literacy study in West Pacific countries, and we initiated another dementia literacy study in Greater Bay Area of China (Prof. Angela Leung). Recommendations were made on the government policy and services in dementia in these countries. Guangdong Government of China acknowledged the research findings and supported the project team to conduct various public education programmes in dementia literacy in Zhuhai, Hong Kong and Macau in 2019-20. An alliance of 25 gerontological nursing units for supporting dementia care in Zhuhai, China with Leung as the advisor of the alliance. Another consultancy project for assessing careers’ needs and services was commissioned by the Hong Kong Government in 2020, which aims to develop relevant policy in the territory (Prof. Angela Leung).
S1. Haslam C, Haslam SA, Jetten J, Bevins A, Ravenscroft S. et al. (2010). The social treatment: The benefits of group interventions in residential care settings. Psychology and Aging, 25(1), 157-167. DOI:10.1037/a0018256
S2. https://www.nari.net.au/files/files/documents/lancet_commission.pdf
S3. The Newsletter of the Hong Kong Association of Horticultural Therapy (p.18):http://www.hkath.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/HKATH-newsletter-issue-12.pdf
S4. A link showing the recording of the episodes in Radio 5, Hong Kong:https://www.rthk.hk/radio/radio5/programme/elderly_selfmanagement
S5. Leung, A. Y. M. (2019 Feb 24-26). The 2nd Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Health Cooperation Conference. Health Commission of Guangdong Province, Food and Health Bureau of the Government of Hong Kong SAR, Health Bureau of Macao SAR Government, and Shenzhen Municipal People’s Government. Shenzhen, China. The project ‘Promoting dementia literacy in Zhuhai and Hong Kong’ was selected as the listed project.
S6. Lam, K., Chan, W. S. Y., Luk, J. K. H., Leung, A. Y. M.* (2019). Assessment and diagnosis of dementia: A review for primary health care professionals.Hong Kong Medical Journal, 25(6),473-82.https://doi.org/10.12809/hkmj198073(Impact Factor: 1.588).https://www.hkmj.org/system/files/cme1912.pdf
Ongoing Research Students
PhD Student
- A133
- +852 3400 8297
- owusuaa.koduah@connect.polyu.hk
PhD Student
- A133
- +852 3400 8295
- terence.lau@connect.polyu.hk
PhD Student
- A130
- +852 3400 8193
- mengli.li@connect.polyu.hk
PhD Student
- A134
- +852 3400 3794
- mining.liang@connect.polyu.hk
PhD Student
- A133
- +852 2766 6427
- laurence.parial@connect.polyu.hk
Externally Funded Projects
Effects of Facebook-based bibliotherapy on improving the wellbeing of informal caregivers of people with dementia: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Shan Shan WANG
Co-I: Prof. Yee Man LEUNG, Dr Sze Ki CHEUNG, Ms Ka Yu WONG, Mr Sze Him LEUNG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: NICHE Research Grant
Total Grant: HK$120,000
Commencement Date: 14-Feb-22
The Effects of a Hybrid Face-To-Face and Online Mode of Delivering a Mindfulness-Based Dementia Caregiving Programme for Family Caregivers of Persons with Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Pui Kin KOR
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: RGC Early Career Scheme
Total Grant: HK$785,120
Commencement Date: 1-Jan-22
Background
Dementia is a worldwide public health priority affecting over 50 million people. Demanding caregiving tasks and uncertainty about the progression of the disease invariably leads to high levels of stress in family caregivers of people with dementia (PWD), consequently posing a threat to their health and dyadic relationship. In various studies, mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) demonstrated promising results on reducing stress. However, a few limitations were noted. First, previous MBIs required the involvement of a qualified interventionist with rigorous training in mindfulness (e.g., 2–3 years), which would impede popularization of the use of mindfulness. Second, the high-intensity training (e.g., 26 hours over 8 weeks in a Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction Programme) that was involved would not be cost-effective enough to accommodate the increasing number of caregivers. Also, caregivers who are heavily engaged in caring tasks will encounter difficulty in attending face-to-face training programmes. Lastly, the MBIs were not tailor-made for dementia caregiving, so the teaching was not linked with caregiving components (e.g., how to respond mindfully to the behavioural problems of the care-recipient). It is necessary to develop a simplified mindfulness programme for caregivers of PWD that can be delivered flexibly by non-mindfulness professionals and integrated with caregiving contents.
Objective
To investigate the effectiveness of a hybrid face-to-face and online mode of delivering a Mindfulness-Based Dementia Caregiving Programme (MBDCP) for reducing stress in family caregivers of PWD.
Methods
In this two-arm, randomized controlled trial, 290 family caregivers of PWD will be recruited and randomized to either the intervention group, receiving the 6-session (1.5 hours each) MBDCP programme over 6 weeks; or the control group, receiving a brief education programme on dementia. The 1st, 2nd, and 6th sessions and the 3rd, 4th, and 5th sessions will be delivered face-to-face and online respectively in both arms. The outcomes will be measured immediately post-intervention (T1) and at the 6-month follow up (T2), and compared with the baseline (T0). They include perceived stress (primary outcome), depressive symptoms, the positive aspect of caregiving, caregiving burden, dyadic relationship, level of mindfulness, the heart rate variability of the caregivers, and the neuropsychiatric symptoms of the care-recipients. A Generalized Estimating Equation will be performed to assess the effects of time, group, and time-group interaction on all outcome measurements. This study will be a pioneering interventional study on adopting brief mindfulness training (MBDCP) with a hybrid delivery approach to reduce the stress in family caregivers of PWD.
Effectiveness of a dyadic pain management program for community-dwelling older adults with chronic pain: a cluster randomized controlled trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE
Co-I: Prof. Sheung Mei NG, Dr Vivian LOU
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Health and Medical Research Fund (HMRF)
Total Grant: HK$1,499,254
Commencement Date: 1-Dec-21
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a Dyadic pain management program (DPM) in reducing pain and psychological health symptoms, improving pain self-efficacy, quality of life, and physical function in older adults.
Hypothesis: DPM is more effective in reducing pain and psychological health symptoms, improving pain self-efficacy, quality of life, and physical function among older adults than the usual care, upon completion of the DPM (week 8) and over time (week 16).
Design and subjects: Clustered randomized controlled trial with neighborhood elderly centers (NEC) as cluster; 150 dyads (one older adults and his/her caregiver as one dyad) will be recruited from 22 NEC clusters. Each NEC will be randomly allocated to experimental group (receive DPM), control group (receive usual care and pain management pamphlet).
Study instruments: Brief Pain Inventory; Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire; Short Form Health Survey-12; Depression, anxiety & stress; Caregiver Burden Inventory; 6-minute walk test and process evaluation.
Intervention: DPM, each session includes exercise, interactive pain management education, practices on non-drug techniques and using a WhatsApp group to encourage home-based exercise and practice of non-drug methods.
Outcome measures: Pain intensity, pain self-efficacy, perceived health-related quality of life and experience in participating DPM, to be collected at baseline (T0), week 8 (T1), and week 16 (T2).
Data analysis: Multilevel regression and/or Generalized Estimating Equation will be used for within-group and between- group comparisons.
Expected results: Significant reduction in pain and enhancement in pain-related parameters, enforcing dyadic pain management models in elderly care.
Using a web-based mind-body intervention program for reducing stress in family caregiver of frail older people in mainland China: an intervention protocol development
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Pui Kin KOR
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: 鄭州悅來蘋果酒店有限公司
Total Grant: HK$20,000
Commencement Date: 1-Aug-21
Development and validation of a holistic health literacy scale for family caregivers of older people
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Pui Kin KOR
Co-I: Dr Ching LAM, Dr Hong LEE, Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG, Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU, Ms Ka Ching LEE
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: NICHE Research Grant
Total Grant: HK$142,591
Commencement Date: 1-Jan-21
Evaluation of the filtering efficiency, fit rate and mask usability of two newly developed N95 respirators
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Ching LAM
Co-I: Ms Suk Ki HO, Miss Ka Yan KO, Mr Kam Hung LAI, Ms Wing Yee NG, Dr Kwai Ping Lorna SUEN, Dr Yiu Wan YIP
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Vannex International Ltd
Total Grant: HK$543,720
Commencement Date: 5-Nov-20
Establishment of testing laboratory and investigation of the trends of quality of filtering facemask during and after the COVID-19
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Ching LAM
Co-I: Ms Suk Ki HO, Prof. Chi Wai KAN, Miss Ka Yan KO, Dr Kit Hang SIU, Dr Kwai Ping Lorna SUEN
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Hip Seng Quality Advancement Centre Company Limited
Total Grant: HK $4,722,000
Commencement Date: 1-Oct-20
Disinfection and reuse of face masks in community setting during COVID-19 epidemic: An experimental study design
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Ching LAM
Co-I: Dr Kwai Ping Lorna SUEN, Dr Kit Hang SIU
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: New World Construction Company Limited
Total Grant: HK$350,020
Commencement Date: 1-Aug-20
Investigation of Happiness Index and its Explanatory Model in Hong Kong: Repeated Cross-sectional Studies
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Ching LAM
Co-I: Dr Sze Ki CHEUNG, Dr Hok Man HO, Ms Cho Nga SIU
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Wofoo Foundation Limited
Total Grant: HK$300,000
Commencement Date: 31-Mar-20
Effectiveness of the Nurse-led Support Programme Using a Mobile Application Versus Telephone Advice on Patients at Risk of Coronary Heart Disease - A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mi Ling Eliza WONG
Co-I: Dr Shuk Yee KO, Dr Ching LAM, Dr Lap Yip Larry LEE, Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG, Dr Yin Ping LEUNG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Nam Kee Noodle Foundation Ltd
Total Grant: HK $270,000
Commencement Date: 1-Mar-20
The study aims to compare the effects of a nurse-led support programme using a mobile application versus telephone advice on clients at risk of coronary heart disease .
Methods
A multi-centre, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial will be conducted. 60 clients diagnosed as being at risk of CHD, able to use a smart phone will be randomized into the App Support Programme (ASP) group or the Telephone Support (TS) group. All participants will receive usual medical treatment as prescribed by doctors . The ASP group will receive an app whereas the TS group will receive telephone support provided by the nurse for 20 minutes bi-weekly. The self-developed mobile app will support clients in managing their health problems and lifestyle. It is comprised of: (1) a knowledge health platform, (2) a membership area for individual health measures and exercise records, (3) a Chest Pain – Things to Do List, and (4) an individual reminder and measure feedback system.
Health outcomes will be collected at baseline (T0), 1 months (T1), 3 months (T2). The primary outcome is: Self-efficacy and self-management behaviour. Secondary outcomes are: (i) ED and hospitalization frequency; (ii) Physiological health profile and cardiovascular functional endurance; (3) total amount of exercise; (4) perceived stress level; and (6) quality of life.
Data analysis: A Generalized Estimating Equations model will be used to assess differential changes in all outcome variables.
Significance:
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major chronic disease around the world and in Hong Kong, and secondary prevention is important to reduce the impact of CHD and to slow its progression via early detection and treatment. Strategies to improve secondary care and support have become a priority of government health policies and healthcare strategies in Hong Kong and many other countries.
This pilot study will examine the feasibility of the main RCT study by using the app; identify any recruitment, implementation of intervention and logistic issues arising from the recruitment, intervention and follow-ups. It can also provide the preliminary finding for sample size calculation for the main RCT.
Investigation of Happiness Index in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area in Southern China: Three Phases Study
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Ching LAM
Co-I: Dr Sze Ki CHEUNG, Dr Yun GAO, Dr Ning LAU, Dr Yim Wah MAK, Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE, Ms Janny XIE, Prof. Ying ZHOU
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Shih Wing Ching Foundation Limited
Total Grant: HK$75,000
Commencement Date: 1-Mar-20
Virtual Reality Motor-cognitive Training for Older People with Cognitive Frailty
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yiu Cho KWAN
Co-I: Dr Nai Kuen FONG, Prof. Claudia Kam Yuk LAI, Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU, Ms Shuk Kan Olive SIN, Dr Jing QIN
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Innovation and Technology Fund for Better Living
Total Grant: HK$2,537,500
Commencement Date: 1-Jan-20
Introduction
Cognitive frailty is an at-risk state of dementia. Motor-cognitive training is effective to promote cognitive and physical function. However, the ecological validity of conventional motor-cognitive training is questionable. Virtual reality (VR) aims to increase the extent of effect transfer from a lab setting to the daily living settings. However, the effect and ecological validity of the virtual reality-based motor-cognitive training in older people with cognitive frailty is unknown.
The objectives of this study are to examine the effects of the VR motor-cognitive training on:
1. cognitive function,
2. frailty syndrome,
3. physical activity level in daily living, and
4. life-space in daily living
Methods
A wait-list multi-centred randomized controlled trial will be employed. Subjects will be randomized into either the intervention group or control group in 1:1 ratio. Subjects will be recruited in the community settings in the elderly community centres. Eligibility criteria include 1) age ≥ 60 years, 2) community-dwelling, 3) cognitive frailty, 4) no dementia, & 5) functional level at outdoor walker level. In the intervention group, the subjects receive VR motor-cognitive training which lasts for eight weeks, provides two sessions per week, and provides 30 minutes per session. In the control group, the subjects receive usual care provided by the elderly community centres (e.g., unsupervised ergometer cycling, board games). Outcome measures include 1) cognitive function as measured by Montreal Cognitive Assessment, 2) frailty as measured by Fried Frailty Phenotype scale, 3) physical activity as measured by actigraph, and 4) life-space as measured by GPS lodger. We aim to recruit 648 subjects in not-less-than six community elderly centres. Data collection will be conducted at baseline (T0) and the week immediately after the intervention (T1). Data will be analysed by using IBM SPSS version 25.0. ANOVA will be used to estimate the interaction-group, between-group, and within-group effects on the outcomes. Principle of intention-to-treat analysis will be adopted to interpret the results. Missing data will be replaced by the last observed values.
Significance
If the intervention is effective, there is going to be a brand new community-based training for community-dwelling older people with cognitive frailty to reduce their cognitive frailty, so as their risk of dementia.
Good Dyadic Relationship between Couple with One Having Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Q-methodology
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Sze Ki CHEUNG
Co-I: Dr Daniel Thomas BRESSINGTON, Dr Hok Man HO, Dr Wing Ka Grace HO
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: NICHE Research Grant
Total Grant: HK $111,000
Commencement Date: 1-Oct-19
A Multicentre Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effectiveness of a Lifestyle Intervention Programme Using Mobile Application Vs Booklet for Adults with Metabolic Syndrome
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mi Ling Eliza WONG
Co-I: Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG, Dr Yin Ping LEUNG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Health and Medical Research Fund (HMRF)
Total Grant: HK $1,254,142
Commencement Date: 1-Jul-19
Aims The study aims to compare the effect of a lifestyle intervention programme (LIP) using mobile application (MetS app) vs using booklet for MetS adults living in the community.
Methods A multi-site randomized controlled trial (RCT) with three arms, namely, MetS app group (Group A), booklet group (Group B), and control group (group C). Two hundred and sixty four subjects will be recruited from community centers and randomized into either one arm. Inclusion criteria are those MetS adult, able to use a smart phone. Group a participants will receive a 30-minute educational session and a MetS app while Group B will receive same educational session and a MetS booklet and the control group receive a placebo booklet only. The MetS app or booklet, has been well developed by the team with the support of internal grant, aims to support MetS individual’s self- monitoring and record of health measures (body weight, blood pressure, waist circumference) and exercise. The primary outcomes of this study include the body weight and total physical exercise (GSLTPAQ). The secondary outcomes include cardiometablolic risk factors, cardiovascular endurance, self-efficacy for exercise (SEE) and stress level (PSS-10). Data will be collected at baseline (T1), 4 week (T2) and week 12 (T3) and week 20 (T4). SPSS and Generalized Estimating equations (GEE) model will be employed for data analysis.
Significance This study will provide empirical evidence and inform about the effective way to enhance patient’s self-management of MetS, exercise sustainability that will be beneficial to clients’ health.
Effectiveness of a Peer-Led Pain Management Program in Relieving Chronic Pain and Enhancing Pain Self-Efficacy Among Older Adults: Clustered Randomized Controlled Trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE
Co-I: Dr Xue BAI, Dr Hong LEE, Dr Raymond See-kit LO, Dr Sheung Mei Shamay NG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Health and Medical Research Fund (HMRF)
Total Grant: HK $1,044,390
Commencement Date: 3-Jul-18
Effects of a Modified Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy for Family Caregivers of People with Dementia in Stress Reduction: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Mr Pui Kin KOR
Co-I: Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU, Prof. Wai Tong CHIEN
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Sigma Theta Tau International
Total Grant: HK $39,150
Commencement Date: 1-Jun-18
Partnership with the Community to Improve the Psychosocial Well-being of People with Dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment, and their Caregivers with Music Interventions: an Effectiveness-Implementation Cluster Randomized Clinical Trials
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Sze Ki CHEUNG
Co-I: Mr Daniel LAI, Miss Yuen Wah HO, Prof. Claudia Kam Yuk LAI
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Ho Cheung Shuk Yuen Charitable Foundation
Total Grant: HK $1,354,502
Commencement Date: 1-Feb-18
Evaluation of an Individualized Exercise Programme Plus Behavioural Change Enhancement Strategies for Managing General Fatigue in Community-Dwelling Frail Older People: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU
Co-I: Dr Parco Ming-fai SIU, Prof. Wai Tong CHIEN, Prof. Keith HILL
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: General Research Fund
Total Grant: HK $853,463
Commencement Date: 1-Jan-18
Project on Medication Adherence and Health Literacy - Part 2
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG
Co-I: Dr Tak Yin LAU, Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU, Ms Shuk Man Sylvia TING
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Hong Kong Housing Society
Total Grant: HK $100,000
Commencement Date: 18-Sep-17
Objectives: This project is the extension of the previous study (MAHL). It aims to compare the effect of verbal advice with the effect of comic books on medication adherence and health literacy among older residents in the 15 public estates in Hong Kong, and to develop a protocol for home-based nursing counselling in medication adherence and assess its implementation.
Methods: This is a three-phase multi-site study with pre-and-post measures. Phase 1 consists of two 45-minute home visits to each older resident by Mediation Use Supportive Team (MUST) team members. A designated protocol will be developed to guide the MUST team members’ action/health education. Phase 2 consists of another two 45-minute home visits in which health literacy skills training and clarification of the misunderstanding of drug labels, appointment sheets and use of common drugs will be included. A comic book will used. Phase 3 consists of 3-hour contacts (two 1-hour home visits, phone counselling and whatsapp messaging) by an experienced nurse. We will reach 300-350 older residents in Phase 1 and Phase 2 respectively, while 25 older residents in Phase 3. Measures include medication knowledge and compliance scale (MKCS) and Chinese Health Literacy Scale for Chronic Care (CHLCC).
Significance of the study: This study provides evidence of the use of verbal advice, comic books, and home-based nursing counselling in medication compliance and health literacy.
Promoting Mental Health Literacy in Aging: Identifying Depressive Symptoms Through Photos
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yee Man, Angela LEUNG
Co-I: Dr Pui Hing CHAU, Ms Angel Fung-man CHAN, Ms Wai Ming TAM, Prof. Wai Tong CHIEN
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Health Care & Promotion Fund (Seed Funding)
Total Grant: HK $493,863
Commencement Date: 1-May-17
Background: Many older adults experience loneliness and depression but they do not often express their feelings, particularly in Chinese population.
Aim: This project aims to promote older adults’ mental well-being and develop their capacity to seek for mental health advices. Design: This is a community-based participatory project encouraging older participants to take photos to share and express their feelings. Their mental health issues will be explored and discussed in meetings with their community workers. These older adults will then be supported to seek for advices on mental health promotion.
Subjects: A total of 460 older adults will be guided by 46 community workers to take photos in the neighbourhood and share their feelings.
Significance: This project contributes to better understanding of mental health issues in older adults, enhancing psychosocial support and health seeking for promotion of mental health/well-being. Participants’ quality of life will be assessed to evaluate its effect.
Genetic Analysis of Alzheimer's Disease in Hong Kong (Sub-account of 5-ZJL7)
Investigators Name:
Rep Co-PI: Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG
Co-PI: Dr Lok Ting LAU
Co-I: Dr David DAI, Dr Yiu Cho KWAN
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Donation from Individuals
Total Grant: HK $165,663
Commencement Date: 6-Mar-17
Objectives: This study aims to validate genetic variants in APOE gene that are associated with the risk of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease in Hong Kong, perform whole-exome search for genetic variants that are associated with the risk of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease in Hong Kong, and identify factors or lifestyle associated with genetic variants.
Method: We will recruit 300 local Chinese persons, 100 with clinically diagnosed with AD, 100 with mild cognitive impairment and 100 with normal cognition. A comprehensive health survey will be conducted by trained research assistants. The environmental and psychosocial factors associated with AD and cognitive frailty will be included in the survey. Buccal swab samples will be collected and DNA will be extracted.
Significance of the study: The findings of the study will inform us the genetic variants in persons with late-onset of Alzheimer’s disease and the factors associated with these genetic variants.
Project on Medication Adherence and Health Literacy
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG
Co-I: Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Hong Kong Housing Society
Total Grant: HK $99,475
Commencement Date: 15-Sep-16
Objectives: This project aims to assess the effect of comic books on medication adherence and health literacy among older residents in the 15 public estates in Hong Kong.
Methods: This is a multi-site study with pre-and-post measures. Phase 1 consists of two 45-minute home visits to each older resident by Mediation Use Supportive Team (MUST) team members. Phase 2 consists of another two 45-minute home visits in which health literacy skills training and clarification of the misunderstanding of drug labels, appointment sheets and use of common drugs will be made via a comic book. Measures include medication knowledge and compliance scale (MKCS) and Chinese Health Literacy Scale for Chronic Care (CHLCC).
Significance of the study: This study provides evidence of the use of comic books in medication compliance and health literacy.
Collaboration Proposal for Pain and Related Situations among Frail Older Adults in Yan Chai Hospital: a Cross-sectional Study
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE
Co-I: Mr Yiu Cho KWAN
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Yan Chai Hospital
Total Grant: HK $120,000
Commencement Date: 24-Aug-16
Background: Aging is a worldwide issue. Higher prevalence of pain and frailty are found in ageing population while pain and frailty may negatively influence the psychosocial well-being of older adults. However, few studies explore the association between pain, frailty and psychosocial well-being of older adults in Hong Kong.
Aim and objective: To investigate pain and pain-related situations among frail older adults, and to explore the relationship between pain, frailty and psychosocial well-being among older adults.
Design: Cross-sectional study.
Setting: Hospital and Geriatric Day Rehabilitation Center.
Sample: 360 participants will be recruited based on convenience sampling.
Measurements: Abbreviated Mental Test 10 will be used to assess the cognitive status of participants for screening. The pain situation and psychosocial well-being will be measured by Brief Pain Inventory - Chinese version and The World Health Organization Quality ofLife-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) for cognitive intact participants while Abbey Pain Scale and The Quality of Life-Alzheimer's Disease (QOL-AD) are for cognitive impaired participants or those who cannot verbalize. A questionnaire about demographic data and pain-related situations, Fried Frailty Index and FRAIL scale for measuring frailty, and Subjective Happiness Scale - Chinese version for measuring psychological well-being will be adopted for all participants.
Data analysis: Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA will be used to test the differences in pain sitnations of participants who arc divided into three groups of frailty, robust, pre-frail and frail. Linear correlation will be analysed using Chi-square for QOL-AD and pain, and Pearson test for WHOQOL-BREF and pain. To compare the psychosocial well-being of three groups of frailty, ANOVA will be used for Snbjeetive Happiness Scale, Chi-square for QOL-AD, and Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA for WHOQOL-BREF.
Expected outcome: Positive association between pain and frailty, negative associations between pain and psychosocial well-being, and between frailty and psychosocial well-being of older adults are expected. Significance of study: The findings will lay the foundation for designing more effective rehabilitation programme for older adults in Hong Kong.
Changing The Way We Prevent Diabetes: The Use of Mobile Application
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yee Man Angela LEUNG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Health Care and Promotion Fund
Total Grant: HK $281,720
Commencement Date: 15-Apr-16
Background: Mobile application has been proven to be a valuable method to increase adults’ health awareness.
Aim: This project aims to promote diabetes risk self-assessment and lifestyle modification with the use of electronic devices.
Design: A longitudinal design with a 3-month intervention for the high-risk persons of diabetes.
Subjects: A total of 2,500 persons aged 40 to 70 will be approached and invited to use the HKU Diabetes Risk Score (HKU DRS) app. Among these, 300 high-risk persons will be invited to join the 3-month phone intervention. Mobile applications will be used to record participants’ lifestyle. Graphs shown in the app (such as diabetes risk level, energy consumption per day) and health advices in the app and phone calls will serve as facilitators to lifestyle change.
Significance: This project contributes to empower individuals to change lifestyle with the support of electronic technology and reduce the chance the progression to diabetes.
A Study to Review Clinical Practice Issues of the Aged Homes of the Yuen Yuen Institute to Enhance Quality Residential Care
Investigators Name:
PI: Prof. Kam Yuk LAI
Co-I: Dr Wai Yung KWONG, Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU, Mr Pui Kin KOR, Mr Yiu Cho KWAN, Ms Lai Ping LEE
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: The Yuen Yuen Institute Social Service Department
Total Grant: HK $496,447
Commencement Date: 15-May-15
Background: In the specifications in the Call for Tender, the Social Service Department of the Yuen Yuen Institute (YYI) indicated three main practice issues that were to be examined. Consequently, this study focus on these three special aspects of long-term residential care, namely falls and fall prevention, restraint reduction, and infection control practice review.
The objectives of this study included: (i) To review the YYI’S existing practices in the YYH and YYC&A in the following three aspects of care: (a) Prevention of falls (b) Restraint policy (Least Restraint Policy), and (c) Infection control practices (ii) To propose recommendations for the standardization of existing policies for the two subvented homes.
Healthy Living Programme (HLP): Diet, Drug and Fall Prevention for Community-dwelling Frail Older Adults
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE
Co-I: Ms Sin Man HEUNG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Pentecostal Church of Hong Kong
Total Grant: HK $150,000
Commencement Date: 15-Dec-14
The Effect of Horticultural Therapy (HT) for Frail Older People in Residential Care
Investigators Name:
PI: Prof. Kam Yuk LAI
Co-I: Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE, Mr Jordan LAU, Mr Yiu Cho KWAN, Ms Ka Lai Shirley LO
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Pok Oi Hospital
Total Grant: HK $376,908
Commencement Date: 1-Jul-14
A Project of Music Intervention for People with Dementia and Their Family Caregivers
Investigators Name:
PI: Prof. Kam Yuk LAI
Co-I: Dr Daphne S.K. CHEUNG, Dr Jacqueline HO
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Ho Cheung Shuk Yuen Charitable Foundation
Total Grant: HK $1,093,455
Commencement Date: 15-May-14
Counseling Service and Research Study in End of Life Care and Advance Care Planning
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Wai Yung KWONG
Co-I: Dr Tak Yin LAU, Prof. Mei Che PANG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Haven of Hope Christian Service
Total Grant: HK $312,000
Commencement Date: 10-Apr-14
The study aims to examine the effectiveness of implementing advance care in caregivers. 25 patients were recruited to answer quality of life and patient satisfaction questionnaire, while 14 caregivers were recruited to answer quality of care and quality of death questionnaire. Collected data was analyzed both in quantitative and qualitative way. Result showed no statistical significant effect on psychological and physical improvement of patients and caregivers across three prognostic windows (days, weeks, months). However, the case-based analysis could reveal the gradual improvement of patients and caregivers in various aspects, thus brought out the importance of advance care planning implementation to end of life care.
PRACTICE IMPLICATION: Eight workshops were conducted for staffs training nursing students learning. Advance care planning was introduced through presenting research finding, discussing cases, and practicing the use of instruments. One evidence-based practice guideline was also completed for staffs to facilitate the initiation of sensitive conversations in the future work.
Implementation of Observational Pain Management Protocol to Improve Pain Management for Long-term Institutionalized Older Care Home Residents with Dementia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Yat Wa Justina LIU
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: RGC Early Career Scheme
Total Grant: HK $669,000
Commencement Date: 1-Jan-14
An Exploratory Study on the Effect of Horticultural Therapy for Mentally Handicapped Adults
Investigators Name:
PI: Prof. Kam Yuk LAI
Co-I: Dr Yim Wah MAK, Mr Yiu Cho KWAN, Ms Connie FUNG
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Hong Kong Association of Therapeutic Horticulture Limited
Total Grant: HK $50,000
Commencement Date: 1-Jul-13
The Spending Habits of Silver Market Population
Investigators Name:
PI: Dr Mun Yee Mimi TSE
Co-I: Dr Wing Cheung Eric TAM
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Senior Citizen Home Safety Association
Total Grant: HK $385,200
Commencement Date: 15-Jun-13
Standardization of an Acupressure Protocol for Managing Agitation in Nursing Home Residents with Dementia: A Pilot Study
Investigators Name:
PI: Mr Yiu Cho KWAN
Co-I: Prof. Kam Yuk LAI
Funding Scheme/ Source of Funding: Sigma Theta Tau International
Total Grant: HK $38,031
Commencement Date: 1-May-13
Subject population: The agitated nursing home residents with dementia.
Research design: Quasi-experimental: time series design with multiple groups. Instruments: Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) for agitation, enzyme-link immunosorbent assay (ELIZA) for salivary cortisol (as a marker of stress).
Procedure: 24 participants will be sampled from the target population by convenience sampling. Samples will be evenly assigned into eight groups which consist of two dosage factors of the intervention (ie. frequency and duration). Subjects in each group will receive acupressure at various dosages as specified by the study group. For example, in group G1-2, the subject will receive the acupressure once a day for two week. The outcomes (ie. agitation and stress) will be measured repeatedly over time (maximally eight weeks) at a fixed interval until the stability of the outcomes resume, which indicates that the acupressure effect is weaned off. For the agitation, it will be measured by CMAI weekly from the commencement day of the acupressure until the agitation level resumes stability after the completion of the acupressure. For the stress, it will be measured by salivary cortisol every three days. The measurement will start 6 days before the commencement day of acupressure until the salivary cortisol level resumes stability after the completion of the acupressure.
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