Abstract
Two new intergenerational interventions for Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients (with moderately severe to severe cognitive impairment) and families are being evaluated, with work to date described. Both interventions share the common goals of:
• Introducing a novel long-term care intervention for Alzheimer patients and their families in order to increase the quality of life for both;
• Increasing the incentive of family members, significant others, and volunteers to visit and spend time with AD patients;
• Increasing staff knowledge of the patient as person;
• Effecting a new intergenerational environment at sites providing care for AD patients; and
• Providing a new paradigm for innovative budget neutral programs, requiring no new public monies, building upon and leveraging existing resources to enhance the quality of life of older adults coping with dementing disorders.
The first intervention uses video biographies; the second involves the first game specifically designed for AD patients and their families. In pilot studies both interventions have been shown to increase patient engagement during visits approximately three-fold. Family and staff interest in both projects has been high.