Keeping Our Eyes on Older Adults: Training CHWs in Geriatric Care

TL;DR

A geriatric training program improved Community Health Workers' knowledge and confidence in caring for older adults and addressing their social needs.

Contribution

A 30-hour geriatric training based on the 4Ms framework significantly improved CHWs' knowledge and identified key themes for effective geriatric care delivery.

Findings

Participants showed statistically significant knowledge gains (z=3.91, p=.003) after the training.

Focus groups identified seven key themes, including enhanced confidence and practical skill application in addressing complex needs.

CHWs emphasized the need for EHR training, regular refreshers, and accurate community resources.

Abstract

The growing aging population in the U.S. highlights the urgent need for specialized geriatric care and trained professionals. Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a vital frontline role in supporting older adults, yet many lack formal geriatric training. The Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP), in partnership with a local Area Health Education Center (AHEC), implemented a training based on the 4Ms framework—What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility—to address this gap and equip CHWs with evidence-based, patient-centered approaches.

Twelve Community Health Workers (CHWs) from Jessie Trice Community Health System and Borinquen Medical Centers participated in a 30-hour geriatric-focused training in October 2024, focused on social determinants of health (SDOH) among older adults (aged ≥65 years). Pre- and post-exams assessed knowledge. Additionally, focus groups explored CHWs’ experiences, training relevance, and future needs. Eleven CHWs participated in two separate virtual focus groups, which were audio-recorded and transcribed. Representative quotations will be included in the presentation.

Participants showed statistically significant knowledge gains, as measured by a Wilcoxon signed-rank test (z = 3.91, p=.003). Focus group findings revealed seven key themes: (1) enhanced knowledge and confidence; (2) practical skill application to address complex needs like housing and behavioral health; (3) interdisciplinary-CHWs and Health Navigator collaboration; (4) supportive onboarding; (5) electronic health records (EHR) training; (6) regular refresher sessions; and (7) gaps in community resource accuracy.

Structured, evidence-informed training significantly enhances CHW capacity in geriatric care and addressing SDOH. Sustained investment in CHW training is essential to build an age-friendly workforce.