Abstract
Changes in behavior are common in dementia and can be challenging to address. The purpose of this pilot study was to look at how effective non-pharmacological interventions are in decreasing associated behaviors among residents in a skilled nursing facility. Pharmacological interventions have been the primary method to decreasing these behaviors; however, these interventions may lead to faster disease progression. There is an increased awareness of the potential uses of non-pharmacological treatment for residents with dementia; however, there are challenges that go along with this approach. A set of interview questions was asked to four staff members of a nursing home piloting a non-pharmacological approach. Three main categories emerged from the interviews. These categories include: decision to use the non-pharmacological interventions, alternative interventions used, and the responsiveness to using the interventions. Findings suggest that these non-pharmacological interventions were effective in decreasing problematic behaviors. Findings also suggest the need for continued education and ongoing research involving the topic of using non-pharmacological interventions to treat these behaviors residents with dementia sometimes exhibit.