Occupational Programming in a Day Hospital for Patients with Dementia

Abstract

Supporting the occupation of patients with a chronic disability such as Alzheimer's disease is a central concern in occupational therapy. The aim of this study was to discover and understand the opportunities for conducting a program aimed at stimulating occupational activities in a day-hospital unit for persons with dementia. Data were collected through field observations and interviews with patients and staff. Analysis focused on understanding how patients initiated and participated in activities. We concluded that features of the institutional setting paradoxically restricted the patients' activity much of the time.