Functional Analytic Multisensory Environmental Therapy for People with Dementia

Abstract

This paper introduces Functional Analytic Multisensory Environmental Therapy (FAMSET) for use with elders with dementia while using a multisensory environment/snoezelen room. The model introduces behavioral theory and practice to the multisensory environment treatment, addressing assessment, and, within session techniques, integrating behavioral interventions with emotion-oriented care. A modular approach is emphasized to delineate different treatment phases for multisensory environment therapy. The aim of the treatment is to provide a safe and effective framework for reducing the behavioral disturbance of the disease process, increasing elder well-being, and to promote transfer of positive effects to other environments outside of the multisensory treatment room.

Multisensory Stimulation on Mood, Behavior, and Biomedical Parameters in People With Dementia

“…[38][39][40] Also, a more standardized approach of MSSE, wherein the presentation of the equipment and the structure and timing of the intervention were standardized according to sensory preferences and individual need of each participants, has also effective outcomes. 10,11 In this sense, nonpharmacological interventions for people with dementia have proved more effective when they are tailored to individuals' backgrounds and preferences. 27,41 …”

“…Also, it has also been observed that a more structured approach of multisensory stimulation has effective outcomes in the functional performance of people with dementia. 10,11 However, many of the scientific studies analyzed in that review 9 had several methodological shortcomings, such as a limited number of intervention sessions [12][13][14] or the lack of a control group against which to compare the results. 12,[15][16][17] There is limited evidence demonstrating that MSSE has higher effectiveness than other one-to-one activities that are frequently used in patients with dementia and that have a clear aim and focus, for example, playing cards, looking at photographs, playing games, or doing puzzles.…”

Multisensory Stimulation and Individualized Music Sessions on Older Adults with Severe Dementia: Effects on Mood, Behavior, and Biomedical Parameters

“…MSSE involves the stimulation of the five senses by the patient's exploration of an environment, following a non-directive and facilitative approach [22], in which many objects such as fiber-optic cables, aromatherapy, light effects, calming sounds, water columns of different colors, and textured balls for tactile stimulation among others, are included [7,24]. MSSE can be modified introducing only a single stimulation modality (i.e., individualized music) or even pairing individual elements (music, aroma, colored water columns) [25]. MSSE has demonstrated to be an effective intervention in the management of behavior and mood in short-term in elderly with dementia in a moderate and severe stage, in addition to encouraging interaction and communication ( [21,26], see [9] and [27] for reviews).…”

COMMUNI-CARE: Assessment tool for reactions and behaviours of patients with dementia in a multisensory stimulation environment

“…It integrated behavioural interventions with emotion-oriented care, allowing the clinician to determine the patient's practical aptitude. This allowed to modify the session's arrangement and level of treatment (Shapiro & Bacher, 2002;Staal, 2012). Each session was assessed by the session leader (who is also the author of the scale), at three different stages: the beginning (from minute 0 to 10 approximately); the middle (minute 10 to 20 approximately) and the end.…”