Implementation of a Person-Centred Activity Program on a Sub-Acute Inpatient Dementia Ward

Aim: This study explored the impact of a person-centered activity program for sub-acute inpatients with Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD). Method: A prospective observational study was conducted in a 15-bed secure wing of a sub-acute metropolitan hospital ward in Australia. Using convenience sampling, patients presenting with delirium or dementia exhibiting BPSD were considered for inclusion. Activity programs were implemented with data collected through observation of behavioral incidences, pre- and post-implementation. Results: Participants were observed over two stages of five weeks (n = 30 pre-intervention, n = 29 post-intervention). The mean age of participants pre-intervention was 80.3 years (SD 15.01) and post-intervention was 85.5 (SD 6.99). There was a 26% decrease of 'overall' behaviors with a statistically significant reduction in 'physical' behaviors (i.e. agitation, restlessness) post-intervention reported as 54% (p = .01). Conclusion: A person-centered activity program can be successfully implemented on a dementia/delirium specific inpatient ward with the reduction of BPSD incidence.