Abstract:

Presented research study building on already available findings (cf. Iorfino (2013): Video Game Training Improvements Cognitive Control in OlderAdults; Vostry et al., (2019): Promoting the Social Adaptability of People with Alzheimer's Disease of Light Vostrý et al., (2017): Attention training and orientation in people with Alzheimer's disease - light type using ICT and Vostrý (2018): Selected opportunities for access to geriatric clients from the perspective of assisting professions) to present the results of a longitudinal research focused on the development of social adaptability of people with impaired cognitive functions in the context of 21st century dynamic changes. This study targets long-term work with geriatric clients with impaired cognitive functions. The intervention uses standard procedures of special education and other procedures in the area of so-called helping professions. At the same time, modern rehabilitation approaches in the form of robot-assisted therapy or the use of ICT in the therapy of impaired cognitive functions are also used to deepen this intervention. Based on the selected tools, a randomized sample of 38 probands was compiled, which corresponded to predetermined relevant features such as age (65-70 years), diagnosis (Alzheimer's disease at late onset; ICD-10 F00.1) and a minimum length of 2 years of placement of probands in facilities providing social services. The selected probands were subsequently regularly tested with the help of a standardized Functional Independence Measure (FIM) test, the results of which were also attended by employees of the relevant facility who impartially observed possible improvements of these persons in coping with daily activities. The aim of the research was to find out, with the support of elements of special education, what influence our intervention has on the development of social adaptability. For this purpose, a therapeutic unit was created, consisting of 19 probands, which lasted about 40 minutes. The intervention took place in an individual or group form for 6 months, and thanks to the adequate number of probands, it was also manageable by one therapist. In 2019, the initial examination was carried out and then the final examination was carried out after the mentioned period so that the obtained data could be compared. In conclusion, possible recommendations for practice with respect to helping professions focused on working with individuals with impaired cognitive functions were formulated through the findings. The results show an improvement in the monitored areas, which means that a special educator may be a suitable member of a multidisciplinary team. For example, Vostý et al. (2018; 2019) emphasizes the positive influence of the multidisciplinary team and points to its pivotal role as a factor in the development of social skills of people with impaired cognitive functions in senior age.

Keywords:

Alzheimer's disease, Dementia, Multidisciplinary team, helping professions, special education, comprehensive rehabilitation.