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American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias logoLink to American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias
. 2002 Nov-Dec;17(6):367–381. doi: 10.1177/153331750201700603

Therapeutic recreation interventions for need-driven dementia-compromised

Suzanne Fitzsimmons 1, Linda L Buettner 2
PMCID: PMC10834021  PMID: 12501484

Abstract

This study describes a clinical trial of at-home recreational therapy for community dwelling older adults with dementia and disturbing behaviors. After two weeks of daily, individualized recreational therapy interventions (TRIs), results indicated a significant decrease in levels of both passivity and agitation. Biograph data collection was useful in identifying the physiological changes that occurred with each intervention technique. Specific information is included on the time of day each behavior occurred and the most effective interventions, as well as implications for service delivery.

Keywords: community-based care, dementia, recreational therapy, behavioral interventions

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The At-Home Therapeutic Recreation Intervention (Community TRI) was funded by a grant from the Retirement Research Foundation.

Contributor Information

Suzanne Fitzsimmons, College of Health Professions, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida.

Linda L. Buettner, Interdisciplinary Center for Positive Aging; College of Health Professions, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, Florida.

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