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Environmental Design in Managing Behavior in Assisted Living. Lisa Reidinger LNHA, CSW, CTRS,CDP. Over the course of the disease 90% of individuals suffering from dementia will experience one or more behavioral problems. Behavior problems vary by type, level of impairment in assisted living.
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Environmental Design in Managing Behavior in Assisted Living Lisa Reidinger LNHA, CSW, CTRS,CDP
Over the course of the disease 90% of individuals suffering from dementia will experience one or more behavioral problems
Behavior problems vary by type, level of impairment in assisted living. • Physically abusive • Verbally abusive • Wandering • Disruptive • Sexually inappropriate • Hoarding or hiding things
Causes of Problem Behaviors • Cognitive Changes • Personal History and Experience • Physical • Acute Illnesses • Environmental • Interpersonal Factors
The Environment • New admission/unfamiliar surroundings • Change in any routine • Loud noises • Lighting levels • Mirrors • Confusing cues • Rushing
Unfamiliar People (staff turnover) • Too much activity-commotion • Other agitated people • Bathing/Dressing • Temperature –too hot or cold • Isolation • Television too loud
Enviromental Design • Homelike: natural light and outdoor views • Warm: familiar surroundings • Assuring Environment: non reflective surfaces and varied color design • Controlled experiences: gardens, outdoor access
Individual: privacy, choice, control and personalization • Encourage Activity: Easy to find areas for dining and programs
Environmental Designs • Open common living room to promote interaction. • Non-institutional work stations (rolltop desk/hutch). • Residential kitchen to promote activity and stimulate appetite. • Self contains and safe outdoor areas.
Ideas to decrease Behavior problems in Assisted Living • Simplify the environment • Reduce noise and number of people in area • Remove resident from the stress full enviroment • Try to identify patterns • Speak slowly and softly • Make eye contact
Limit choices • Make slow movements. Gentle handeling and touch • Follow daily routines • Discuss with resident what she or he can do not what they cannot do • Distract with pleasurable activity • Always reassure the resident