Keywords

assistive device, environmental modification, family caregiving, skill-building training

 

Authors

  1. GITLIN, LAURA N. PHD
  2. CHEE, YEON KYUNG PHD

Abstract

Use of adaptive equipment in caring for persons with dementia at home is an underutilized compensatory strategy that can help ease aspects of caregiving and support the safety and functionality of persons with dementia. This article describes low-cost, low-technology adaptive equipment prescribed by occupational therapists as part of a home intervention designed to provide families with skills and strategies to manage daily care challenges. Also examined are caregivers' reasons for not using equipment and practice guidelines for assessing care needs and integrating equipment into daily home care routines.