As many as 42% of assisted living (AL) residents have moderate or severe dementia, and 38% have related behavioral and psychological symptoms including agitation and anxiety. More than two-thirds of AL communities administer medications for these symptoms, despite the fact that antipsychotics are generally contraindicated. Instead, non-pharmacological practices are recommended, such as sensory practices, psychosocial practices, and structured care protocols. This presentation will highlight data from a seven-state study of 280 AL residences, indicating that between half and virtually all report using (for example) bright light therapy (55%) and reminiscence therapy (85%) to address behaviors. However, data suggest they are not actually employing these practices, as some describe them as “having a courtyard” and “using shadow boxes.” In addition to providing comprehensive data, this presentation will discuss the development, implementation, and evaluation of protocols to help AL providers implement non-pharmacological practices for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
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