Applications of Preference Assessment Procedures in Depression and Agitation Management in Elders with Dementia

Low levels of engagement with leisure activities are commonly seen in older adults with dementia and may lead to decreased social contact, depressed affect, and agitated behaviors. Adults with dementia often have difficulty choosing activities when asked directly about preferences due to cognitive decline, which makes it more difficult to increase their engagement levels. However, simply presenting leisure items without prior knowledge of preferences may be inefficient and may not yield desired results. Long-term care staff need more structured and efficient ways to determine individual preferences and preference assessments (structured choice making opportunities) may offer a solution. Preference assessments have been used to identify effective reinforcers for both individuals with developmental disabilities and older adults with dementia and can provide staff with a brief method for identifying enjoyable activities. This study examined the utility of using stimuli (identified from preference assessments) in behavioral management protocols with 11 elders (mean age = 85.6 years) with dementia in a long-term care setting. Behavioral outcomes of depression and agitation were evaluated at baseline and throughout the intervention. Results indicated positive improvement in behavioral symptoms in 8 of 11 participants. The utility of using preferred items in behavioral management protocols was supported for reducing agitated behaviors but was only partially supported for decreasing depressive symptoms in individuals with dementia.