Author: Sandy C. Burgener, Ph.D., APRN-BC, F.A.A.N., Yang Yang, Ph.D., Ruth Gilbert, M. S., Sara Marsh-Yant, M.S.W.
Affiliation: Corresponding Author: Sandy C. Burgener, Ph.D., University of Illinois College of Nursing, 408 S. Goodwin Street, Urbana, Illinois, 61801; Phone: (217) 333-3083; FAX: (217) 244-0430; e-mail: sburgenr@uiuc.edu
Conference/Journal: American Journal of Alzheimer\'s Disease & Other Dementias
Date published: Aug/Sep 2008
Other:
Word Count: 144
Theories supporting the existence of a use-dependent neuroplasticity in the older brain were used to guide this pilot study. A repeated-measures randomized design was used to test the effectiveness of a multimodal (Taiji exercises, cognitive-behavioral therapies, support group) intervention on cognitive functioning, physical functioning, and behavioral outcomes in persons with dementia (PWD). The treatment group (n=24 PWD) participated in a 40-week intervention, with outcomes assessed at 20 and 40 weeks to assess optimal treatment length. Control group subjects (n=19 PWD) received attention-control educational programs. At 20 weeks, differences between groups were found for mental ability and self-esteem, with gains in balance being evident. Also, stability in depression and physical health were evident at 20 and 40 weeks for treatment group subjects. Continued improvement in outcomes was not observed at 40 weeks, however. Findings support further testing of the intervention along with potential for achieving positive outcomes in early stage dementia.