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P1‐433: A Community‐Based Approach to Addressing Caregiver Strain in Indigenous Caregivers of People with Dementia
Author(s) -
Smith Kate,
LoGiudice Dina,
Flicker Leon,
Josif Cathryn,
Malay Roslyn,
Lindeman Melissa,
Atkinson David,
Bessarab Dawn
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.713
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1552-5279
pISSN - 1552-5260
DOI - 10.1016/j.jalz.2016.06.1186
Subject(s) - indigenous , dementia , participatory action research , family caregivers , scale (ratio) , empowerment , medicine , community based participatory research , psychology , aged care , gerontology , nursing , geography , sociology , ecology , disease , pathology , biology , cartography , anthropology , political science , law
their wandering behaviors. Wandering can be supported through effective wayfinding design. Wayfinding, a form of spatial problem solving, aids orientation. Specific wayfinding strategies can counteract memory and cognitive mapping deficiencies in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (Passini, Rainville, Marchand, & Joanette, 1998). Can design features provide opportunities for wandering that reduce negative symptoms? Methods: Design recommendations that support wandering-friendly environments through effective wayfinding strategies form the basis for behavioral observations and focused interviews. Supporting information includes: 1) A literature review addressing design features hypothesized to support wayfinding and implications for wandering behavior. 2) Data collected during on-site visits to memory care facilities: Documentation of existing features in communal areas; Observations of resident behaviors in those areas; Focused interviews with staff. Both the observational and interview information address the nature of resident wandering behavior, when and where residents appear to be more or less anxious, and how the residents appear to respond to specific design features. Results:The literature review reveals that many of the design recommendations supporting wandering overlap with those suggested for improved wayfinding. Information from on-site study findings are used to develop or refine design recommendations for memory care units in assisted living facilitiess, specifically for residents with mid-range Alzheimer’s disease. Conclusions: Providing safe and stimulating environments for wandering might relieve some negative symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Until a cure is found, the need for supportive housing for those with the disease will continue to increase. This research provides additional design recommendations for wandering-friendly environments within care facilities.