Document Type
Presentation
Publication Date
4-2026
Faculty Mentor
Roxanna Bendixen
Abstract
Geriatric patients with dementia in inpatient psychiatric units are admitted with cognitive and behavioral challenges that often lead to increased agitation and greater reliance on 1:1 support, limiting participation in group therapy. While evidence supports structured, activity-based and sensory-informed interventions to promote regulation and engagement, implementation is often inconsistent due to workflow barriers, staffing limitations, and lack of structured guidance for staff, especially if cognitive impairment is not immediately recognizable.
This quality improvement capstone project aimed to develop and implement an evidence-informed staff training program, along with a structured activity binder system with adaptable, unit-specific interventions to support consistent activity-based care on a Senior Care Unit. The intervention was guided by the Model of Human Occupation (MOHO) and incorporated principles from cognitive stimulation therapy, sensory-based approaches, and real-time activity grading.
Pre-intervention data collected through REDCap surveys, staff feedback, observation, and activity trials revealed strong interdisciplinary support for structured programming but inconsistent implementation due to competing demands and limited real-time decision-making support.
The intervention included development of a formal training module, a structured activity binder, and on-unit implementation support. Post-intervention data demonstrated improved outcomes, with nearly 80% of staff reporting increased confidence in leading activities, over 85% reporting improved ability to adapt interventions, 62.5% reporting increased activity frequency, and 90% reporting improved unit atmosphere and patient engagement.
These findings suggest that structured training and practical tools can improve consistency of activity-based interventions and enhance patient engagement in inpatient psychiatric settings.
Recommended Citation
Raybon, Kenya, "Interventions for Geriatric Patients with Dementia in Inpatient Psychiatric Settings" (2026). Entry-Level Occupational Therapy Doctorate - Doctoral Capstone Symposium. 115.
https://medica-musc.researchcommons.org/muscotd-elotd/115