'Here comes the sun': Enriching lives and reducing agitation for residents with dementia in long-term care homes

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the consequences of offering socially derived programs geared to reduce agitation in residents of a secure dementia unit in a LTC home. Data were collected through the generation of field notes based on observations of unit activities and through semi-structured interviews conducted with five staff members of a LTC home in Ontario. Discussion focuses on findings from both observations and qualitative interviews. Situating the discussion within the context of a social constructivist framework, this study offers an understanding of the effects of providing meaningful activities to persons with dementia in the LTC context as a means to reduce agitation and improve quality-of-life. My thesis provides insights into the effectiveness of social programs to reduce agitation in persons with dementia in the LTC context and has implications for future care in a LTC setting.