Feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of OLAIA multisensory program for people living with dementia

OLAIA is a multisensorial program designed to manage behavioural and psychological symptoms, based in their multidimensional aetiology, offering palliative support for people living with dementia. This study evaluated its feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effectiveness using a single group with a before-after design. Questionnaires included sociodemographic data, education level, cognitive functioning (GDS), pain and discomfort (PAINAD), agitated behaviours (CMAI) and satisfaction (post-intervention). Attendance, adverse events and satisfaction were recorded. Statistics included descriptives, Wilcoxon signed ranks and Mann-Whitney U test. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The attendance rate of the 64 participants was 59.4% and the retention rate was 92.2%. Results revealed positive satisfaction with the sessions and with the therapists, and a significant decrease in PAINAD at post-intervention (p<0.001). Four categories emerged in the qualitative analysis related to satisfaction, benefits, quality of the professionals, and recommendations for the future. The OLAIA was considered feasible, acceptable with promising preliminary effectiveness.