Increasing Engagement and Positive Emotional Behavior of Older Adults With Mild-Moderate Dementia With the Use of Motion-Based Technology and Meaningful Activities

The purpose of this study is to investigate if engagement in self-selected motion-based games such as Wii and the "Magic Table" is correlated to higher levels of engagement and more positive emotional behaviors.

Individuals may be able to participate in this study if they are an attendee at Community Adult Day Care (CADC) and have a diagnosis of mild-moderate dementia. Individuals need to be able to speak and understand English. Individuals cannot participate if they don't speak English, if they do not attend CADC, or if they have not been diagnosed with mild-moderate dementia Participants will be asked to engage in various activities at the CADC. Participants will be assigned to either the group that will engage in motion-based games such as the Wii gaming system or the Magic Table or will be assigned to a group that engages in typical activities offered by the CADC. If you participate, we will ask you to attend 10 different study-related activity sessions. Each session will last approximately 2 hours and will occur one time per week over approximately 10-weeks.

A potential direct benefit of participating in this study could be that you might have improved mood, behaviors, and/or feelings related to satisfaction and/or quality of life. Involvement in activities also have the potential to improve physical, cognitive, and social skills/function.

The physical risks are minimal and no more than what is expected in routine life and part of everyday activities offered to clients at the CADC.

There is a small chance that involvement in some of the activities may lead to possible feelings of sadness or unease if you are not successful in the desired activity. However, the researchers will do everything possible to modify the activities to enhance success and enjoyment! If any of the activities make you feel uncomfortable, you can stop at any time. You can choose to watch other participants, take a break, or choose not to participate. You do not have to do anything they do not want to do.

If you decide not to participate in this study, you will go about the regularly scheduled programs and activities offered at CADC and no data will be collected for that individual.