Among the few US Assisted Living facilities to maintain an active research division, Hearthstoneâs research is structured around providing answers to the many elusive questions regarding how to improve care for people with dementia and others requiring supportive environments. As such, the focus of the division is on translational research â the translation of research into practice. Through our research, we create evidence-based training and products that enable Hearthstone to provide the most state-of-the-art care to our residents and clients. Particular areas of focus include: ⢠Design of the physical environment ⢠Development of meaningful activities and creating social roles for our residents and clients ⢠Management of complex medication regimens, and ⢠Measurement of treatment outcomes to improve quality of life. Projects undertaken by members of Hearthstone's Research Division have included: Environmental Contributors to Health Outcomes in Dementia Special Care Units - funded by the National Institute of Aging, the study considered the effects of eight environmental design features on agitation, aggression, depression, social withdrawal, and psychotic symptoms of residents with Alzheimer's disease in Special Care Units. The eight design criteria, which were found to have varying levels of correlation to improved outcomes in a dementia population, include: ⢠Exit Control ⢠Walking Pathways ⢠Private Space ⢠Common Space Variability ⢠Therapeutic Gardens ⢠Residentiality ⢠Support for Independenc
