Ellen McCarty, a nursing professor at Salve Regina University, has been awarded a Fulbright Senior Specialists grant in public/global health at the University of New Brunswick, Canada, to build research capacity and develop research networks focusing on chronic illness management in the elderly, particularly in the area of Alzheimer’s disease.
The project will take her to New Brunswick on two 14-day visits beginning in May. She will also continue her work at Salve. McCarty taught at Salve since 1997 and has a doctorate in nursing from Boston College School of Nursing.
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PBN: What has led you to focus your work on geriatric mental health issues in particular?
McCARTY: Clinical experience provided the impetus. I have worked as a nursing instructor with students in the community caring for older adults with mental health needs and their families, and also as a leader of a community support groups for caregivers and as an advanced-practice nurse in long-term care settings, caring for older adults and their families and with nursing home staff.
PBN: How much consensus is there in the medical community’s understanding of Alzheimer’s and how best to treat it, and how well has new research worked its way into daily care?
McCARTY: While there are many advances in research, development of evidence-based practice protocols, and professional and family care-giving resources, there remains much need in helping people access appropriate health care programs. We need to assist people through the access to care due to barriers such as socioeconomic factors, culture and geographical location.
PBN: What role do you see for nurses in advancing this field, and how do you convey that to Salve nursing students?
McCARTY: Enhancing students’ awareness of the rapid growth of the older population and of chronic illness care is fundamental. It is essential that today’s students be engaged in interdisciplinary collaborative clinical experiences that promote holistic health based on evidence-based practice.
