Advancing Primary Care for Older Adults Through the 4M Framework and Resource Exchange

Sep 29, 2026

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The growing population of adults aged 65+ will strain primary care, increasing demand on a limited workforce. The Age-Friendly 4M framework—Medication, Mentation, Mobility, and What Matters—provides a structured, evidence-based approach to team-based primary care. A resource-exchange strategy supported 4M adoption in Rhode Island through two six-month quality improvement initiatives with partner collaboration. Pre- and post-ratings showed a 22% overall improvement in adherence to 16 4M guidelines and dementia care-partner engagement, with community support sustaining engagement.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages1

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

Care Transformation and Rationale

Age-Friendly 4M Framework

Resource Exchange Quality Improvement Initiatives

Partner Collaboration and Roles

Implementation Approach in Practices

Levels of 4M Adoption

Peer Learning and Monthly Facilitation

Outcomes and Impact

Adherence to 4M Guidelines

Dementia Care-Partner Engagement

932 Innovation in Aging, 2025, Vol. 9, No. S2 Rhode Island, United States, 3. Care Transformation Collaborative of Rhode Island, Providence, Rhode Island, United States The growing population of adults aged 65+ will strain primary care, increasing demand on a limited workforce. The Age-Friendly 4M framework—Medication, Mentation, Mobility, and What Matters—offers a structured, evidence-based approach to team-based primary care. This project used a resource-exchange strategy to support 4M adoption in primary care. The Rhode Island Department of Health Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders “BOLD” Program, the Care Transformation Collaborative of RI, the RI Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program, and UnitedHealthcare collaborated to launch two six-month quality improvement initiatives to assist primary care practices with implementing the 4M framework and achieving the Institute for Healthcare Improvement’s (IHI) Age-Friendly recognition. Identification of needed resources and support for what matters most to care partners of patients with dementia were key added components. Practices responded to a call for applications and received funding, individualized support from a practice facilitator, and structured workplans to engage at Level 1 (preparing for 4Ms) or Level 2 (expanding 4M processes) . Practices met with facilitators monthly and joined three peer learning sessions. Over two years, 11 practices participated. All practices achieved IHI Level 1 designation, and all five that applied advanced to Level 2. Pre- and post-program ratings showed a 22% overall improvement in adherence to 16 distinct 4M guidelines and dementia care partner engagement. By pooling resources, this initiative advanced 4M adoption in primary care, enhancing care for older adults and dementia patients by identifying care partners, addressing their needs, and offering community support. Partner collaboration ensured engagement and sustainability. Abstract citation ID: igaf122.3150 ADVANCING PRIMARY CARE FOR OLDER ADULTS THROUGH THE 4M FRAMEWORK AND RESOURCE EXCHANGE Victoria O’Connor1, Christine Ferrone2, Susanne Campbell3, Suzanne Herzberg3, Nijah Venditelli3, and Jayne Daylor3, 1. Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, Rhode Island, United States, 2. University of Rhode Island, Kingston,

FAQs

What problem does the 4M framework aim to address in primary care?

It targets the pressure on primary care caused by the growing population of adults aged 65+, by providing a structured, evidence-based approach to team-based care.

How did the project support primary care practices in adopting the 4M framework?

It used a resource-exchange strategy and launched two six-month quality improvement initiatives, offering individualized support from a practice facilitator, structured workplans, and peer learning sessions.

What were the key results after the initiatives?

All practices achieved IHI Level 1 designation, five advanced to Level 2, and ratings showed a 22% overall improvement in adherence to 16 4M guidelines and dementia care-partner engagement.

Sep 29, 2026

Upload by jay