Effectiveness of Strength-based Intervention for Elderly With Dementia Living in the Community

Effectiveness of Strength-based Intervention for Elders With Dementia Living in the Community and Residential Units: a Randomized Controlled Trial

In the realm of dementia care, the imperative to intervene at the earliest stages of cognitive decline is paramount. Recognizing this pivotal moment, the development of innovative and effective interventions becomes imperative in delaying dementia progression.

Rooted in the Roy Adaptation Model and Zimmer's Theory of Psychological Empowerment, the investigator team has developed the empowerment-based dyadic strength-based intervention, which integrates strength-based and empowerment methodologies. Emphasizing a shift from deficits to capabilities, the strength-based approach fosters awareness of collective strengths within care dyads, facilitating coping mechanisms and resilience in the face of cognitive afflictions.

In the realm of dementia care, the imperative to intervene at the earliest stages of cognitive decline is paramount. Recognizing this pivotal moment, the development of innovative and effective interventions becomes imperative in delaying dementia progression.

Rooted in the Roy Adaptation Model and Zimmer's Theory of Psychological Empowerment, the investigator team has developed the empowerment-based dyadic strength-based intervention, which integrates strength-based and empowerment methodologies. Emphasizing a shift from deficits to capabilities, the strength-based approach fosters awareness of collective strengths within care dyads, facilitating coping mechanisms and resilience in the face of cognitive afflictions.

The objective of this study is:

1. To study the effectiveness of ambassador-led strength-based intervention for patient-participants with dementia living in the community and residential units to enhance their quality of life;
2. To compare how the involvement of young-old volunteers in the strength-based intervention enhance service effectiveness

After obtained the consent baseline data collection will be done. The participants will be randomized to receive either the ambassador-led strength-based intervention of usual care group. The post-test data collection will take place upon the completion of the program (9th week) and at 3-month thereafter.

The Strength-based intervention incorporates 8-week Ambassador-led strength-based intervention including:

1. a strength-based assessment to the patient-participant and caregiver done by the Social Worker,
2. Ambassador-assisted preparation of the strength-based biography,
3. four Ambassador-led workshops, the workshop will be delivered in group of 6-8 participants by at least 2 Ambassadors, and
4. one Social Worker-led zoom video conference delivered to the caregivers.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age over 18
• a confirmed diagnosis of mild dementia as indicated by the cut-off score of Montreal Cognitive Assessment-5-min at 13-18 for dementia and >18-21 for mild cognitive impairment
• self-reported cognitive complaints
• have the ability to engage in the communication with the research assistant
• able to identify a family caregiver
• consent to participate

Exclusion Criteria:

• person who has communication problems with the research team