The contribution of occupation to function in persons with Alzheimer’s disease

Occupation is known to play an important role in the maintenance of health. No study has explicitly explored the role that occupation (defined as continued engagement in instrumental, leisure, and social activities) plays in the maintenance of self care skills and management of disturbing behaviors in individuals with dementia of the Alzheimer’s type (DAT), nor has the relationship of memory, executive skills, and occupation been studied in this population. Seventy two couples, one spouse with DAT, were studied to explore these relationships and the role that occupation plays in their function. Individuals who remained active in occupation demonstrated fewer disturbing behaviors, required less help with basic self care, and their carers’ experienced less stress. Theoretical implications of findings are discussed.