Therapeutic recreation as an intervention for persons with dementia and agitation: An efficacy study

Abstract

Thirty-six long term care residents with dementia and agitation were selected for participation in this eight week study. During the eight week J period, the participants received two different four week therapeutic recreation interventions in a clinical crossover design. These interventions included a sensorimotor program and a traditional activity program. The effects of these two programs were evaluated in terms of the effect on strength, flexibility, over all functioning, and agitation. The analysis showed that there was a significant improvement of grip strength, flexibility, and a reduction in agitation during the sensorimotor segment of the treatment. The results of this study indicate a new direction for therapeutic recreation specialists working with older adults with dementia and agitation.