Pertinent autonomy for residents with dementias: Modification of the physical environment to enhance independence

Abstract

Autonomy and independence have recently become important issues for the elderly, but have not been applied to Alzheimer's disease patients. This project explores pertinent autonomy for the cognitively disabled by studying exit door behaviors. A specially designed environment satisfied safety and health concerns and enabled residents to have free access to the outdoors during daylight hours. Twenty two residents in early to advanced stages of the disease participated in the project. The results indicate that the number of agitated behaviors in five categories decreased under the unlocked door condition.