Following are summaries of peer-reviewed research and briefs on community health worker programs for older adults. Many of these programs have demonstrated positive results, such as improved health outcomes and reduced care utilization.
Clinicians and Promotores Teaming to Provide In-Home Primary Care to Frail Older Adults
Pairing promotores with clinicians increased in-home visits and reduced acute care use and health care costs for homebound older adults.
Evaluating a Care Management Program for Dual-Eligible Beneficiaries: Evidence from Rhode Island
Community health worker-led program associated with reduced acute care utilization and lower Medicaid and total costs for dually eligible individuals.
The Role of Community Health Workers in the Health and Well-Being of Vulnerable Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A telephone-based community health worker program offered critical supports for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Partnering with Community Health Workers/Promotores to Adapt, Deliver, and Evaluate a Home-Based Collaborative Care Model to Improve Access to Quality Depression Care for Older Latino Adults
A home-based collaborative care model using community health workers shows reductions in depression and increased connection to services for older adults.
Diabetes Management Among Underserved Older Adults Through Telemedicine and Community Health Workers
Research review finds that incorporating community health workers into primary care reduced A1c levels and improved self-management and satisfaction among older adults with diabetes.
Role of Community Health Workers in Addressing Dementia: A Scoping Review and Global Perspective
Literature review examines the roles and contributions of community health workers in improving dementia care.
Community Health Worker Interventions for Older Adults with Complex Health Needs: A Systematic Review
Community health worker-led interventions for older adults with complex needs show evidence of improving participant mood and functional outcomes.
