AN EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF SENSORY STIMULATION WITH PEOPLE WHO HAVE DEMENTIA

Abstract

Hospitalized older adults with dementia often have few opportunities forsocial interaction and psychological stimulation. Their psychologicalfunctioning is affected by the dementing illness, sensory impairment and theeffects of living in an institutional environment. The adverse effects ofsensory deprivation may be particularly relevant for this clientgroup. Using a multiple single case design, we evaluated the effects ofindividual sensory stimulation sessions on four elderly patientswith dementia. All were living on a hospital continuing care psychiatricward. Detailed behavioural observations were made before, during and aftersessions to assess patients’ responses. Adaptive functioning andwellbeing were also investigated. Results indicated that the interventionled to observable changes in levels of interaction, active looking andinterest. The effects were transitory with the exception of activelooking, which endured following the session. Adaptive behaviours alsoimproved, though there was no change in wellbeing. The study indicates thatsensory stimulation is a valuable therapeutic intervention with this clientgroup.