Sitting position affects participative interaction of immobile aged care residents: a pilot study.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the effect of sitting position (reclined versus upright) on the levels of participative interaction and spontaneous communication of immobile and totally dependent aged care residents.


METHODS
Ten frail, immobile and totally dependent female residents older than 85 years were observed in reclined and upright sitting positions. Scores measuring responsiveness to stimuli in the surrounding environment and spontaneous communication initiation were derived from observations (taken morning and afternoon).


RESULTS
There was a significant increase in the responsiveness score in the upright sitting position (P < 0.001) but no effect of sitting position on initiative score. There was no effect of time of day on either responsiveness or initiative score.


CONCLUSIONS
An increased level of responsiveness was seen in upright sitting position in immobile and totally dependent aged care residents. The potential for participative interaction with the surrounding environment increases in this position which therefore may improve quality of life.
Hammer
J Lauren
JL
The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia.
Nitz
Jennifer C
JC
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D016330:Frail Elderly / Q000523:psychology*; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011187:Posture