The effect of multisensory stimulation on persons residing in an extended care facility.
BACKGROUND
Non-pharmacological interventions, such as multisensory stimulation environments (MSSE), have demonstrated the ability to reduce inappropriate behavior among individuals with Alzheimer's disease.


METHODS
In this study, we compared the incidences of problematic behavior among individuals with Alzheimer's disease residing in a long-term care facility who were and were not exposed to an MSSE. Retrospective data were obtained using the Psychotic Behavior Assessment Record (PBAR), mandated by Medicare to be used when antipsychotic medications are administered. Psychotic Behavior Assessment Record data were collected using the first and sixth month of admission for residents after appropriate consent was secured.


RESULTS
Documented disruptive behavior included pacing, exit-seeking activities, hitting, yelling, and aggressive talking. The use of the MSSE resulted in a decrease in the number of incidences of disruptive behavior, but not the behaviors present.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of MSSE, as a non-pharmacological intervention, demonstrates the ability to decrease the number of incidences of disruptive or problematic behavior. The use of these interventions, where feasible, should be considered prior to the use of pharmacological methods.
School of Nursing, University of Missouri, Kansas City, Missouri, USA. wardsmithp@umkc.edu
Peggy
P
Ward-Smith
Sarah M
SM
Llanque
Denise
D
Curran
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019341:Aromatherapy; D019958:Attention Deficit and Disruptive Behavior Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004779:Environment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007374:Interior Design and Furnishings; D008297:Male; D009147:Music Therapy; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D012866:Skilled Nursing Facilities; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents