Comparing the efficacy of PQRST adapted memory exercise versus daily journal checklist on memory retention and comprehension among dementia patients A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

newline Abstract: newlineBackground: Dementia is a condition characterized by deterioration in memory, thought, judgment and comprehension, primarily affecting the population aged 60 years and above. This condition leads to difficulty in carrying out activities of daily living as well as Instrumental activities of daily living. Dementia care centers and Rehabilitation centers are practicing contemporary methods including daily journaling to help dementia patients memorize information and carry out activities of daily living with less effort. A memorizing technique, named PQRST memory exercise was adapted and tailored for mild to moderate dementia patients and evaluated for its effectiveness. newlineObjectives: This study aims to compare the efficacy of PQRST adapted memory exercise versus daily journal checklist on memory retention and comprehension among dementia patients. newlineMethods: A total of 90 dementia patients were randomly assigned to PQRST adapted memory exercise group and daily journal checklist group, 45 participants in each group. Intervention was administered for 30 minutes to PQRST adapted memory exercise group where as the daily journal checklist group was instructed to maintain journal for the said duration. newlineResults: The participants receiving PQRST adapted memory exercise showed significant results in memory, with a pre-test mean of 10.095 and a post-test mean of 11.619, resulting in a difference of 1.52 and a percentage increase of 15.09%. The difference in percentage improvement between the experimental and control groups was 36.16%, with a confidence interval ranging from 21.60% to 50.70%. Comprehension scores indicate that the Experimental group improved from a pre-test mean of 8.738 to a post-test mean of 9.548, resulting in a difference of 0.81 and a percentage change of 9.27%. The difference in percentage improvement between groups was 9.27%, with a confidence interval of 0.50% to 18.00%. newlineInterpretation and Conclusion: PQRST adapted memory exercise is more efficacious as compared to daily journal che