Seeing what they see: Compensating for Cortical Visual Dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer’s disease is often perceived as a disorder largely of memory. However, visual areas of the brain are also affected, leading to problems with visual perception (Crutch et al 2012). The presenters and authors are... [ view full abstract ]

Alzheimer’s disease is often perceived as a disorder largely of memory. However, visual areas of the brain are also affected, leading to problems with visual perception (Crutch et al 2012).

The presenters and authors are part of an interdisciplinary research programme funded by the ESRC and NIHR in the UK, which aims to better understand the impact of dementia-related visual impairment on everyday life, and to develop home-based interventions that can facilitate the occupations and quality of life for people with dementia and their families.

This workshop presents findings from people with Alzheimer’s disease and Posterior Cortical Atrophy from 2 of 3 preparatory studies within the research programme. The first study explored the relationship between impairment, task performance and environment using a simulated visual environment, neuropsychological, eye tracking and gait measures. The second parallel study gained insights of everyday coping strategies of people with dementia-related visual impairment and their families, and how professionals identified visual impairments and provided appropriate support.

The workshop will incorporate powerpoint and video presentations of the impact of dementia-related visual impairment. Participants will have the opportunity to explore and discuss how dementia-related visual impairment impacts upon individuals and their families and consider how interventions to enhance the occupations of people with dementia and their families may be informed through empirical investigation of the physical environment.


Maximum number of participants: 24

Intended Participants: This workshop will be of interest to occupational therapists involved in working with people with dementia and stroke.