Practical implications of Procedural and Emotional Religion Activity Therapy for nursing

J Gerontol Nurs. 2010 Aug;36(8):22-9; quiz 30-1. doi: 10.3928/00989134-20100303-04.

Abstract

Procedural and Emotional Religious Activity Therapy encapsulates an approach to engaging older adults with Alzheimer's disease in meaningful activities that can be performed within the parameters of their cognitive functioning. Alzheimer's disease disrupts some brain structures more than others, resulting in a disproportionate loss of certain cognitive abilities. Explicit (conscious) memory skills are disrupted first, followed by implicit (unconscious) memory skills, and lastly emotional memory. Activities relying more on implicit and emotional memory, such as specially selected religious activities, are more likely to be used by patients. Steps and caveats of using this approach are provided.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Alzheimer Disease / nursing
  • Alzheimer Disease / therapy*
  • Disease Progression
  • Emotions*
  • Humans
  • Nursing Assessment
  • Religion and Medicine*
  • Spiritual Therapies / nursing*