RHC: Pittsburgh Mercy Health System

Contact: Mary Donnelly
Telephone: (412)-232-7997<

The Health Bag project's goal is to maintain/improve the health (body, mind and spirit) of the isolated,frail older adults in the targeted communities of PMHS by increasing the productivity and effectiveness of the services provided by the parish nurses through the creative employment of tools and training not traditionally used by them or their volunteers--the project demonstrates and tests tools and training that incorporate wholistic health care. The tools found in the Healthbag are tape players for soothing and inspirational music, stress reduction programs, spiritual messages and communication; rhythm instruments for both exercise and music therapy; printed materials for health information, exercise balls, weights and bands for strengthening exercise and the prevention of falls; medication boxes for organization of medications, and guidelines to availability of services through PMHS.

Implementation
Four groups of volunteers were trained to use the materials and implementation of Healthbag began with 10 homebound adults.

Time Frame
In 1999 provide "train the trainer' sessions; collect 6 month date on previous 1998 clients; collect 6 month data on pilot groups; present Healthbag to interested professional and volunteer groups as opportunities arise; begin to market Healthbag product.

Financial Profile
The Healthbag program represents a program funded by the Mercy Stewardship Fund (Care of the Poor). The salary of the project coordinator and the cost of the equipment/materials used in the program amount to $20,000.

Outcome
Healthbag brings positive activity into the homes of the frail. The project has demonstrated that a program of once-a-week volunteer visits, which includes music and exercise, can have a positive effect on the lives of the homebound elderly. The number of elderly parishioners and the number of volunteers who participated in the project exceeded the 1998 program goals.