Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
4-23-2025
Abstract
Date: 04/23/2025
Student Name: Kimberly Perry
Capstone Project Title: Grounded in Wellness: A Holistic Approach to Managing Fear of Falling in Alzheimer's and Dementia
Capstone Faculty Advisor: Thierry Lienou, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS, ATP
Abstract:
The fear of falling is a significant concern for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other related dementia. This fear often leads to reduced mobility, a lack of consistent social engagement, and lower quality of life (Soysal et al., 2021). This project seeks to establish a multidisciplinary intervention program that integrates occupational therapy, yoga therapy, and sound therapy to reduce the fear of falling in older adults with dementia. In addition, this program is collaborative effort that engages healthcare professionals, caregivers, community base program leaders striving to enhance the lives of individuals affected by dementia. The program aims to strengthen physical balance and reduce anxiety, while improving cognitive and functional independence. Activities alleviate anxiety and enhance emotional regulation, both essential for lessening the risk of falls (Green et al., 2019; Madhivanan et al., 2021). Sound therapy relieves stress and promotes relaxation. While occupational therapy improves independence and safety in activities of daily living. (Ito et al, 2022). Literature shows the potential of these methods having a positive effect in a contributing factor of reducing the fear following among individuals living with dementia. Additional research is needed to determine long term methods and results and effectiveness of these interventions.
Recommended Citation
Perrry, Kimberly and Lienou, Thierry, "Grounded in Wellness: A Holistic Approach to Managing Fear of Falling in Alzheimer's and Dementia" (2025). Howard University, Department of Occupational Therapy Capstone and Faculty Research. 7.
https://dh.howard.edu/huotresearch/7
