Alzheimer’s disease is a pervasive, progressive condition that affects millions of individuals in the United States, with African-Americans are also at a higher risk for the development of vascular dementia, as there is a correlation between decreased physiccal activity, poor nutritional intake and health habits, acting as contributory factors for cardiovascular disease. The focus of this capstone project is the presentation of a 4-hour continuing education course to instruct occupational therapy practitioners on the imortance of helping clients and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias to utilize occupational profiles and performance as a contextual guide to facilitate continued participation in valued and meaningful activities. The maintenance of health status to prolong function and overall well-being will be an overarching theme of this capstone project. The constructs of physical and emotional health, approproate nutritional intake, and activity engagement will provide the framework for a holistic and client-centered approach to care.
