Multi-Sensory Stimulation in 24-hour Dementia Care - Nivel

and reliable observation scales and investigating several behaviour patterns of
demented elderly, such as agitation, aggression, depression, apathy and anxiety.
Second, by analysing video-recordings, using observation scales on behaviour and
mood of demented residents.
The effectiveness of snoezelen on the quality of CNAs’ working life was investigated
by an extensive questionnaire, existing of valid and reliable scales measuring
workload, perceived problems, stress reactions, job satisfaction and burnout.
Structure of the thesis
Chapter 2 gives a systematic literature review of the effectiveness of psychosocial
methods on depressed, aggressive and apathetic behaviours of people with dementia.
In Chapter 3, the implementation process on the experimental wards is evaluated.
The quantitative results of the evaluation of the training ‘snoezelen for caregivers’ are
presented, as well as the qualitative results representing the opinion of caregivers.
The chapter describes what actually has been done during the implementation
period. Facilitating interventions and barriers are identified and an overview is given
of the changes that have been realised, in the eyes of caregivers, on the level of
residents, caregivers and organisation.
Chapter 4, 5, 6 and 7 present the quantitative results of the trial.
Chapter 4 reports the effectiveness of snoezelen on nurse-patient communication
during morning care. The non-verbal and verbal communication of both nurses and
residents during morning care is described, based on a detailed analysis of the videorecordings
by independent observers.
In Chapter 5, the effectiveness of the implementation of snoezelen on the quality of
nurses’ behaviour during morning care is presented. The chapter describes whether a
change in nurses’ behaviour towards a more person-centred attitude has been
achieved on the experimental wards, using an observation scale that was developed
for this study.
Chapter 6 addresses the effects of snoezelen on the behaviour and mood of demented
nursing home residents. The results of observations, carried out by CNAs on the
ward, and video-observations of the morning care, assessed by blind observers, are
provided.
In Chapter 7 the results of the study into the effects of snoezelen on the quality of
working life of CNAs are presented, in terms of perceived problems, job satisfaction
and other work-related outcomes.
Finally, in Chapter 8, the results of our study are discussed. The main findings are
summarized and methodological reflections are made. The relationship between the
findings is discussed as well as the relevance of the study. Recommendations for
practice and future research are made.
Introduction 25