PAIRED INTEGRATIVE EXERCISE FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA AND CAREGIVIERS (PAIRED PLIÉ STUDY)

Abstract

Background: There is growing evidence that behavioral interventions can improve physical function, cognitive function and mood in people with dementia, but most programs target a single domain. The Preventing Loss of Independence through Exercise (PLIÉ) Program integrates physical, mental and social activities into a single multi‐modal, group movement program. Although the program was originally designed to be performed with trained exercise instructors at adult day centers, we have now adapted the program so that it can be performed with pairs of affected individuals and care partners (Paired PLIÉ Program). The goal of this study is to perform a randomized, controlled trial using a delayed start design (Figure) to determine whether the program improves physical function, cognitive function, quality of life and caregiver well‐being. Methods: Study participants are dyads of individuals with mild to moderate dementia and care partners who are fluent in English and able to participate in intervention activities. Dyads are randomly assigned to Group 1 or Group 2 in blocks (10/site, 6 sites). Group 1 participates in Paired PLIÉ classes for 16 weeks (2 days/week for 8 weeks, 1 day/week for additional 8 weeks), while Group 2 is placed on a waitlist and participates in usual activities. Then Group 1 transitions to a maintenance phase while Group 2 participates in Paired PLIÉ. Assessments are performed at baseline and 4, 8 and 12 months. The co‐primary outcomes are change in physical performance (Short Physical Performance Battery), cognitive function (Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale ‐ cognitive subscale), and quality of life (Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease) for affected individuals and caregiver well‐being (Caregiver Burden Intentory, Positive Aspects of Caregiving) for caregivers. Results: The study protocol has been approved, and recruitment is scheduled to begin in June 2015. Conclusions: The Paired PLIÉ Program uses a novel, integrative approach to simultaneously provide physical, mental and social stimulation in people with dementia and to teach these principles to care partners. If the program proves successful, it could serve as a model for strategies to enhance functional status and quality of life in millions of people living with dementia and to improve well‐being in caregivers. (Figure Presented).