Abstract:

A sample of 19 older persons with alzheimer's disease was followed for 1 year. Significant changes were found in mental and physical status and use of assistive devices. As subject's physical and mental state declined, they tended to stop using devices to assist with cognitive impairement, and more devices were used that assisted the care giver such as wheelchairs and lifts. A number of modifications were made to homes, most to restrict bahaviours such as wandering, rummaging through closets and drawers or excessive eating. No interventions were provided as part of the study; rather, the study sought to determine the ways older persons were coping. particluarly their use of assistive devices and home modifications.