Outcomes of day care: A pilot study on changes in cognitive function and agitated behaviors of demented elderly in Korea

This study examined outcomes of Korean day care for demented elderly Koreans. Changes in the cognitive function and agitation of demented elderly individuals were assessed over time. A one-group repeated measures design was used. The data were collected on a sample of 13 individuals from March to August 1999. The cognitive function of the subjects remained stable during the 10-week study period, while their level of agitation increased over time, indicating a need for the examination of factors that affect problematic behaviors of the demented elderly. This pilot study showed that day-care programs in Korea may be an effective way to maintain the stability of cognitive function in elderly Koreans with mild- to moderate-stage dementia. Further investigation of effective behavioral modifications within day-care settings could justify additional government support of Korean day-care programs for those suffering from dementia.