Table 4.

Visuospatial dementia care pathway vignette

How the Visuospatial Perceptual Deficits are Affecting Steve's Daily Life	Steve's Identified Strengths	Corresponding Recommendations for Steve
Steve enjoyed an active social life but lately has withdrawn from socializing with others due to impaired driving ability.	He maintains an interest in socializing with friends and he has no problems with verbal communication.	New modified community activities that do not rely on Steve's visual perception, such as attending art- and music-based activities and programs in the community accompanied by a companion so he does not need to drive.
Steve is having difficulty writing and using a calendar.	He has only minor problems with short-term memory and no other cognitive impairments at this time.	Referral to an occupational therapist to increase use of compensatory strategies for schedule management, including selection of visually simple calendar, use of highlighting and color coding, and use of block lettering with space in between each letter. A large display clock with the time and date was recommended.
Due to his visual changes, there are safety risks for activities within his home including cooking, ironing, and driving.	Steve is independent in all his personal activities of daily living.	Introduced environmental changes, including the use of bright lights, decluttering, and removing throw rugs to decrease falls. In the kitchen Steve was encouraged to use labels to help him find objects and organize the refrigerator so that he could find objects based on location (eg, “second shelf”) if he could not “see” them. The occupational therapist also reviewed safety issues at home with Steve's wife.
He walks more slowly and hesitates when on sidewalks with curbs and while using stairs.	Steve is physically strong and has good balance.	Referral to a local low vision support program for additional services to accommodate visual changes.