Effects of Client-Centered Home Modification and Caregiver Education on Activity Performance and Satisfaction of Persons With Mild Dementia: A Case Study

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of client-centered home modification and caregiver education on the changes in activity performance and satisfaction level of persons with mild dementia in a home environment. Moreover, the role of an occupational therapist as a service provider in Korea for persons with dementia was discussed

Methods: The participant of this study was an 84 year-old woman with Alzheimer’s disease. The independence, difficulty, and safety of the participant regarding her activity performance were assessed through an AHA. COPM was used to determine the meaningful activities for the participant. Based on the results, the target intervention activities were selected. Moreover, home modifications and caregiver education were determined as intervention methods according to the cognitive level of the participant, which was assessed through her ACLS. The outcome measures were collected post intervention and during a 6-month follow-up assessment.

Results: The performance level of the activities, which showed a decline owing to cognitive impairment, increased after the intervention. The increase in independence, difficulty, and safety was maintained after 6 months. Activity satisfaction also improved throughout the intervention.

Conclusion: Client-center home modifications and caregiver education improved the activity performance and satisfaction of the participant. Furthermore, occupational therapists are required to offer services to clients with dementia as a case manager.