Environmental factors and its effect on communication in patients with advanced dementia: caregiver perspectives

Date of Submission

Spring 2025

Document Type

Closed Research Project

Degree Name

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology

Department

Speech-Language Pathology

First Advisor

Malathy Venkatesh, PhD, CCC-SLP

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the current study was to explore the perspectives of healthcare caregivers about environmental factors such as the physical environment, lighting and noise and its influence on the communication ability of people living with dementia in residential settings. Methods: Twenty-seven healthcare caregivers (registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, certified nursing assistants and others who provide direct care) completed a descriptive survey for this cross-sectional study. Participant inclusion criteria included experience working with people living with dementia and currently employed in residential settings (skilled nursing facilities, long-term care centers, memory care centers/units.) Results: The results indicate that healthcare caregivers are knowledgeable about factors such as the physical environment, lighting and noise and recognize them as important factors influencing communication in people living with dementia in such settings. Conclusion: Proper lighting and noise management are critical in supporting cognitive communication functions, and healthcare caregivers demonstrate a growing awareness of their importance.

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