Effectiveness of an individualized functional training program on affective disturbances and functional skills in mild and moderate dementia--a randomized control trial.

Objectives
We reported the findings of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to examine the effects of an individualized functional enhancement program (FEP) on functional skills and mood symptoms in mild and moderate dementia.
Subjects & Methods
74 Chinese older persons with dementia were recruited into a skills training program by occupational therapists (OT). Thirty seven subjects were trained with an individualized selection of daily activities (FEP Intervention, I); 37 were trained with general occupational therapy (Control, C). The FEP comprised of twice weekly group sessions of skills training and problem solving using cognitive behavioral approach.
Results
At 1 month after completion of program, both I and C subjects showed an improvement in process skills of the assessment of motor and process skills (AMPS)(paired t-tests, p  0.05).
Conclusions
The findings suggested a potential benefit for individualized occupational therapy. It should be tailor made with individual needs and continued for sustained effectiveness. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.