Authors

  1. Lanzi, Alyssa
  2. Burshnic, Vanessa
  3. Bourgeois, Michelle S.

Abstract

The increasing incidence of aging adults with cognitive-communication impairments and demand for services that enhance the quality of life of this population necessitates examination of the evidence-based strategies that hold the most promise in producing desired quality-of-life outcomes. The adoption of person-centered care approaches in health care (Kitwood, 1997) allows for a better understanding of how to include the person with cognitive-communication impairment in the process of identifying communication needs, developing intervention approaches, and modifying strategies as needs change. The continuum of dementia severity and the cognitive-communication characteristics at each stage are outlined as a guide for selecting compensatory communication supports to fit changing needs. Environmental features and the training of caregivers are important components of a person-centered care model that aims to ensure that individuals with dementia are respected and can live fulfilling lives.