Wandering and the Physical Environment

作者：Algase Donna L^*; Beattie Elizabeth R A; Antonakos Cathy; Beel Bates Cynthia A; Yao Lan

来源：American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and Other Dementias, 2010, 25(4): 340-346.

DOI：10.1177/1533317510365342

• dementia
• model testing
• wandering
• observational methods
• physical environment
• NDB model

Background/Rationale: Guided by the need-driven dementia-compromised behavior (NDB) model, this study examined influences of the physical environment on wandering behavior. Methods: Using a descriptive, cross-sectional design, 122 wanderers from 28 long-term care (LTC) facilities were videotaped 10 to 12 times; data on wandering, light, sound, temperature and humidity levels, location, ambiance, and crowding were obtained. Associations between environmental variables and wandering were evaluated with chi-square and t tests; the model was evaluated using logistic regression. Results: In all, 80% of wandering occurred in the resident's own room, dayrooms, hallways, or dining rooms. When observed in other residents' rooms, hallways, shower/baths, or off-unit locations, wanderers were likely (60%-92% of observations) to wander. The data were a good fit to the model overall (LR [logistic regression] chi(2) (5) = 50.38, P < .0001) and by wandering type. Conclusions: Location, light, sound, proximity of others, and ambiance are associated with wandering and may serve to inform environmental designs and care practices.

• 出版日期2010-6