Long-term memory cuing to reduce visuo-spatial disorientation in Alzheimer's disease patients in a special care unit

Abstract

Visuo-spatial disorientation typically occurs relatively early in Alzheimer's disease patients, and is usually reported by families who fear that the individual may leave the house and get lost. It is often this deficit which frightens the family members into consideration of a long term care facility. However, disorientation to place can occur within a long term care facility as well as outside of it. This study will examine whether prominently displayed personal memorabilia of long term significance to each resident will serve as orientation cues to help identify his or her bedroom. The results indicate that four out of 10 residents were more successful in locating their rooms with significant memorabilia items than with nonsignificant ones.