지역사회 거주 남성노인을 위한 치매 돌봄 프로그램 효과

Abstract

Purpose: We developed and tested the effects of a care program for dementia patients among community- dwelling older adult men. Methods: This study used a non-equivalent control group pre-and post-test design. To verify the effectiveness of the care program for dementia patients, 26 community dwelling older adult men participated in this study. We used multiple intervention strategies including improving understanding of dementia through education, activities for dementia prevention, and promoting psychological change. In particular, based on the current understanding of the care of the men older adults, we used strategies to promote motivation and reinforce strengths. Results: After completing the 6-week intervention program, when compared with the control group, older adult men in the care program intervention group showed significant differences in scores for the following: cognitive functions (p=.035), attitude toward dementia (p=.026), preventive behavior (p=.007), geriatric depression (p=.013), caring confidence (p=.018), and self-esteem (p=.013). Conclusion: These results indicate that the care program for dementia patients has positive effects on increasing their cognitive function, attitude toward dementia, preventive behavior, caring confidence, self-efficacy, and on decreasing depression rates in this population. Based on this, we can recommend this program to men caregivers for the improved care of dementia in community centers.