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American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias logoLink to American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias
. 2011 Jun;26(4):282–289. doi: 10.1177/1533317511411177

Effects of a Motor and Multisensory-Based Approach on Residents with Moderate-to-Severe Dementia

Joana Cruz 1, Alda Marques 2, Ana L Barbosa 3, Daniela Figueiredo 4, Liliana Sousa 5
PMCID: PMC10845596  PMID: 21665880

Abstract

Involving institutionalized people with dementia in their routines may be challenging, particularly in advanced stages of the disease. Motor and multisensory stimulation may help to maintain or improve residents’ remaining abilities such as communication and self-care. This study examines the effects of a motor and multisensory-based approach on the behavior of 6 residents with moderate-to-severe dementia. A single-group, pre- and post test design was conducted. Motor and multisensory stimulation strategies were implemented in residents’ morning care routines by staff, after the provision of training and assistance. Twelve video recordings of morning care (6 pre- and 6 post interventions) were coded for the type of residents’ behavior. Results showed a tendency toward improvements in residents’ levels of caregiver-direct gaze, laughing and engagement, and a reduction of closed eyes, during morning care. The introduction of a motor and multisensory-based approach in care routines may improve residents’ engagement and attention to the environment.

Keywords: morning care, motor stimulation, multisensory stimulation, residential care homes

Full Text

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Contributor Information

Joana Cruz, Higher School of Health, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal, joana.cruz@ua.pt .

Alda Marques, Higher School of Health, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal, Member of the research unit UniFAI (Unidade de Investigação e Formação sobre Adultos e Idosos), University of Porto, Portugal.

Ana L. Barbosa, Higher School of Health, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.

Daniela Figueiredo, Higher School of Health, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal, Member of the research unit UniFAI (Unidade de Investigação e Formação sobre Adultos e Idosos), University of Porto, Portugal.

Liliana Sousa, Member of the research unit UniFAI (Unidade de Investigação e Formação sobre Adultos e Idosos), University of Porto, Portugal, Health Sciences Autonomous Section, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.

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