Stress, social engagement and psychological well-being in institutional settings: Evidence based on the minimum data set 2.0

While a substantial body of literature has emerged on the relationships bet ween stress, social support and well-being in community-based older persons , few studies have examined institutionalized populations. The present stud y used data from pilot studies of the MDS 2.0 in three hospitals, along wit h supplementary surveys related to psychological well-being. It was found t hat patients with higher social. engagement scores tended to have higher le vels of well-being, and this effect was greatest among those with more stab le physical health. Pain was an important predictor of lower well-being. Si nce the MDS 2.0 provides a comprehensive approach to identifying and respon ding to social, psychological and physical problems in institutionalized ol der persons, it can have an important impact on well-being when used to sup port decision making and clinical intervention.