Peyser NP; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 1990 Jun 20-23; 6: 459 (abstract no. 4022).
Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
OBJECTIVE: To enhance the quality of life for patients in the Methadone Maintenance Treatment Program (MMTP) who are homebound due to AIDS/ARC, and who are socially isolated. METHODS: MMTP patients served as "buddies" for other MMTP patients who were homebound or institutionalized due to AIDS (PWA's). Training was conducted by existing MMTP staff with assistance from community agencies. The buddies were selected based on stability in the methadone program. They were paid a small stipend for 15 hours per week direct service and attendance at support groups and supervision. PWA's were identified based on inadequate family or other care partners. RESULTS: 38 buddies were trained in the 1st year of operation and provided services to 80 homebound PWA's. Several buddies progressed to job training programs and employment. Many PWA's were able to leave their home with the assistance of the buddy, for recreational, medical and other purposes, and many direct needs of the PWA's (blankets, food, medical attention) were met through the buddy. Buddies did not relapse to drug abuse, despite the bereavement they experienced when a PWA died, and reported improved feelings of self-esteem and satisfaction. CONCLUSION: MMTP patients can be trained to deliver support service to PWA's, benefiting both PWA and buddy. This can be replicated elsewhere based on the Helping Hands training program, supervisory process, and support mechanisms.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- AIDS-Related Complex
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Health Services
- Humans
- Methadone
- Self-Help Groups
- education
- organization & administration
Other ID:
UI: 102197409
From Meeting Abstracts