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Decreasing problematic behaviors in dementia inpatients: The effects of flexible schedules and staff training

Year: 1993
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Cross-Becker, Connie M., M.A., December 1993 Psychology Decreasing Problematic Behaviors in Dementia Inpatients: The Effects of Flexible Schedules and Staff Training Director : Stuart Hall { The purpose of the present study was to examine the efficacy of a treatment program designed to reduce problematic behaviors in elderly nursing home patients diagnosed as having dementia of the Alzheimer's type or a related disorder. The treatment program consisted of two components: a staff training program coupled with the implementation of individualized, flexible daily schedules for the patients. Aspects of patient behavior that were examined included agitated behavior, dependent behavior related to activities of daily living, falling, and cognitive functioning. A within-subj ects, pretreatment versus posttreatment design was used. Results indicated that the treatment program effected a significant reduction in the amount and severity of the worst type of agitated behavior -physical aggression against others. Scores on dependent behavior showed a significant increase from pretreatment to posttreatment, indicating that subjects were less able to perform self-care activities of daily living in the posttreatment phase. Similarly, Dementia Rating Scale scores showed a significant decline from pretreatment to posttreatment, indicating that subjects were at a lower level of cognitive functioning during the posttreatment phase. There was no significant change for falling. Finally, it was found that cognitive functioning was related to activities of daily living in that subjects with greater cognitive impairment were more likely to have difficulties with activities of daily living. Potential explanations and implications of these findings are discussed. The results of the present study represent an important step toward improving the quality of life for dementia patients as well as for nursing staff who work with them.
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2469013972
Cites: 35
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Related to: 10