Focus Area: Program/Policy Development; Education

Capstone Site: Heritagespring of West Chester 

 

There are three components to this capstone proposal:

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The first portion is the development of a training guide for state-tested nursing assistants (STNAs) regarding proper communication with patients with dementia so that these patients are able to maintain as much independence as possible with their daily tasks. Training will involve 1-3 modules depending on demand and number of STNAs present at the facility, completed as a 30-minute Lunch and Learn, addressing effective communication strategies. Additionally, a handout will be created and distributed to STNAs and other staff members who interact with dementia patients that they can refer back to following the Lunch and Learn presentations. The effectiveness of the training guide and presentation will be determined through a pre and post-test completed by four STNAs before the Lunch and Learn and afterward.

 

The second portion is the creation of an Allen Cognitive Level Screen (ACLS) toolbox that will contain at least two activities for each of the six levels of the ACLS that occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants can implement and utilize during therapy sessions based on a patient’s current ACL. The toolbox will be small and compact, considering there is not a lot of space at the facility to store equipment for therapy sessions. The capstone student will consult with the occupational therapists at Heritagespring of West Chester for feedback and modifications to developed activities.   

 

Lastly, the third portion aims to evaluate cognition, depression, and lower extremity strength in older adults diagnosed with dementia through participation in the Mind and Movement program. By assessing participants' lower extremity strength utilizing the 30-Second Chair Stand Test, cognition utilizing the Mini-Mental State Examination, and mood utilizing the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia, the research will focus on improving participant’s mental and physical health through a 6-week exercise program. The findings will provide important information regarding the impact of exercise on the mental and physical health of older adults with dementia living in long-term care facilities.

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Some of my strengths include consistency, adaptability, and being an arranger. These strengths are important when working with older adults with dementia because they function best in environments where they are familiar and with people they recognize. Although consistency is important, the behavior of older adults with cognitive decline is fluid, and that is why it will also be important to adapt to their fluctuating moods and behaviors. 

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Faculty Mentor: Dr. Marnie Renda

Capstone Site Mentor: Casey Smith

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