Physical environmental cues to reduce the problems of incontinence in Alzheimer's disease units

Abstract

Research has indicated that behavioral strategies such as cuing orientation within an environment may help reduce incontinence among dementia patients. However, there are no empirical studies that explore the relationship between incontinence and environmental modifications. This study compares the effectiveness of four nomenclatures such as “toilet” and “restroom” on the wayfinding abilities of residents in the early, middle, and advanced stages of dementia in two specially designed units. Results indicate that a series of directional arrows on the floor with the nomenclature “toilet” produced the most instances of utilization of public toilets in both units.