New Research Findings Demonstrate Comprehensive Care Program Dramatically Reduces Reoccurrence of Stroke

5/26/2004

From: Abby Sturgeon of Cooper Communications, Inc., 818-348-8030 or Abby@CooperCommunications.net

VAN NUYS, Calif., May 26 -- ONEgeneration, the nationally recognized intergenerational care agency, has developed a research proven comprehensive care model for stroke victims, dramatically reducing the likelihood of a second stroke (re-stroke), according to research results funded by Unihealth Foundation. Nationally, 18 percent of stroke victims re-stroke in the first year; ONEgeneration's research reduced that rate to 5.6 percent.

ONEgeneration Stroke Prevention and Management Program is based on a model of care including hospital and rehabilitative care, supervision of services by a case manager, social support and home care services -- and it's affordable. While other stroke management programs include elements of this model, there are no others in the United States providing such a comprehensive continuum of care. ONEgeneration's program costs an average of $3,552 per client annually, while national estimates for annual cost of care should a second stroke occur are approximately $48,000.

This research study, which is currently in phase two through a grant from The California Endowment, proves that without continuous support and assistance in managing the outcomes of stroke, stroke victims are at risk for experiencing even more debilitating conditions. Additional medical complications often lead to recurrence of stroke and/or premature institutionalization of the victim.

In addition to reducing re-stroke rates, the research shows that ONEgeneration's program reduces post-stroke depression rates to 18 percent and increases activities of daily living, including grooming and feeding, in more than 90 percent of program participants. Nationally, 40-50 percent of stroke survivors are diagnosed with depression, and the national average of improvement in activities of daily living among stroke victims is 79 percent.

In the Stroke Prevention and Management Program's second phase, ONEgeneration will use the research data to affect change in current healthcare policy, insurance reimbursement standards, and government funding of stroke care management.

Donna E. Deutchman, president/CEO of ONEgeneration, explained, "We want the public, elected officials and healthcare professionals to know that highly successful, affordable, healthcare options are available for individuals who have already suffered a stroke. We hope that programs following our comprehensive care model will be implemented throughout the country, reducing the burden of stroke impairment on those who have experienced a stroke, their families and caregivers."

ONEgeneration provides community-based services for seniors, children and their families. Committed to healthy aging and successful early childhood development, ONEgeneration's research proven theory and innovative programming create benefits for all generations.