機構失智長者的活動設計

Activities Programs for Institutionalized Elderly Patients with Dementia

機構照顧者在活動引領及規劃安排上扮演重要角色，當機構失智長者參與愈多結構式活動安排，不僅可以顯著降低問題行為，同時還可以提高日常活動功能、改善睡眠品質、減輕焦慮情緒、促進自我表達與社交互動，並提升照顧者士氣及正向照顧態度，進而幫助機構失智長者獲得更完整的照護品質。本文探討適合機構失智長者的活動類別內容並提出相關建議，以期作為機構照顧者設計活動之參考。

Formal caregivers often play an important role in leading activities programs and arranging appropriate therapeutic activities in institutions. Studies have shown that, when elderly patients with dementia have participated in more structured activities, agitated behaviors have been significantly decreased. Also, structured activities have helped in the performance of ADL, as well as improved quality of sleep, decreased anxiety, improved self-expression and social interaction, enhanced caregiver's morale, and resulted in a more positive caring attitude on the part of caregivers. This article will discuss the categories and contents of activities programs for elderly patients with dementia and can be applied as a reference to assist formal caregivers in their efforts to arrange appropriate activities programs in institutions.