Meaningful Activities Research Articles

Intervenções da terapia ocupacional em pessoas pós-primeiras crises psicóticas no contexto brasileiro

Abstract Introduction The high prevalence of mental disorders and psychotic crises today is a major social concern. Considering the various social, occupational, and cognitive impacts associated with the first psychotic crisis, the role of occupational therapists in treating individuals affected by it stands out, as these professionals work to promote health and well-being through participation in meaningful activities and occupations. Objective To identify and highlight the approaches and types of activities used by occupational therapists, the challenges faced by the population, and the obstacles encountered in providing care to individuals after their first psychotic crisis in Brazil. Methodology This is a descriptive and exploratory research in which data was collected via an online form with 16 questions about the training and practices of occupational therapists working with people after their first psychotic crisis. Nine occupational therapists participated. Results 66% of the participants currently work with this population, and the use of Psychosocial Rehabilitation was predominant in the interventions of the participating occupational therapists. The main challenges identified were stigma, the fragility of public policies, and difficulties in the social reintegration of these individuals. Conclusion The work of these professionals reflects the historical context of occupational therapy in mental health in Brazil, especially regarding the emphasis on Psychosocial Rehabilitation and work in Psychosocial Care Centers, exploring the practices and challenges of occupational therapy in the country.

A counterweight model for understanding and treating persecutory delusions.

Direct challenge seldom leads to change in strongly held beliefs such as persecutory delusions. A better route is to develop an alternative belief that can coexist with the delusion. The best such beliefs function as counterweights to the delusion. Over time, the scales shift. The alternative belief becomes more powerful than the delusion. In this paper, we set out such a model of persecutory delusions (or severe paranoia) and describe how it inherently translates theoretical understanding into treatment routes. Severe paranoia occurs when the adaptive cognitive processes of deciding whether to trust become overly weighted to mistrust. An inaccurate threat belief is formed, and the person feels very unsafe. Hence, overcoming the delusion means developing a counterweighting belief. It means building the alternative view that the world is safe enough for the person now and going forward. This, in turn, is done by experiencing safety. However, the pull of paranoia is strong due to multiple factors such as past history, anxious arousal, hallucinations, feelings of vulnerability, use of defenses, withdrawal, worry, difficulties distancing from fears, and a sense of defeat. These factors can prevent the person from feeling safe in even the most benign environments. Therefore, counterweights must be developed for these factors. For instance, feeling vulnerable can be counterweighted by developing self-confidence. Excessive time spent worrying can be counterweighted by devoting more time to thinking about meaningful activities. The counterweight approach provides a non-confrontational, empathic, personalized way to lift the burden of paranoia from a patient with persecutory delusions.

A saúde mental retratada por adolescentes: uma pesquisa criativa

Abstract Introduction Based on a pluralistic conception of adolescence and the need to expand the spaces for listening to people who experience this process, there are indications in the literature about the need for studies to consider the place of speech of the adolescent population regarding mental health and the adoption of methodologies that consider them in the production of knowledge about themselves. Objective To identify the understandings of high school adolescents about mental health. Method Qualitative research, conducted with 15 high school adolescents, which used the creative method of graphic elucidation to produce data. The adolescents chose elements present in their lives to represent their perspectives on mental health. Results The participants approached mental health in a broad way, related to the feeling of well-being, the possibilities of relating and having a support network, as well as the performance of meaningful and pleasurable activities. Conclusion The results reinforce the need for a broader concept of mental health, contextualized with the needs, desires, experiences, culture and history of the subjects. In addition, they highlight the importance of investing in research strategies that guarantee the place of speech of adolescents.

Meaningful and daily activities of people who are dependent on alcohol and drugs: perspectives from occupational therapy

Resumo Introdução O consumo de drogas compreende uma prática milenar e atualmente tem se caracterizado como uma questão de saúde pública. A partir da compreensão fundamentada no núcleo de conhecimento da terapia ocupacional, acredita-se que as pessoas têm a necessidade de realizarem atividades significativas que deem sentido em suas vidas. Nessa perspectiva, indaga-se se o uso problemático de álcool e outras drogas tem influência na realização dessas atividades significativas e no cotidiano das pessoas que usam drogas. Objetivo Compreender, a partir da perspectiva das pessoas que fazem uso problemático de álcool e outras drogas, se o consumo de substâncias influencia na realização de atividades significativas e em seus cotidianos. Método Participaram do estudo quatro pessoas que fazem tratamento em Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Álcool e Drogas (CAPS AD). Os dados foram coletados por meio do método Photovoice e analisados a partir da técnica de análise de conteúdo do tipo temática. Resultados Nas categorias de análise discute-se os sentidos atribuídos às atividades significativas e ao cotidiano, e a influência do uso problemático de álcool e outras drogas na realização/reorganização desses. De uma forma geral, os participantes relataram que as atividades significativas estão relacionadas à produção de sentido e à realização de projetos de vida, enquanto o cotidiano foi atribuído à realização de atividades diárias. Conclusão As perspectivas da terapia ocupacional direcionam-se para a realização de atividades significativas e reorganização do cotidiano a fim de promover a reintegração social e melhorar a qualidade de vida das pessoas.

“I’d go on a hike with my kids… that would make me feel so happy.” Recognising what people with haemophilia B identify as meaningful when considering personal goals and the potential for gene therapy

Abstract Introduction Historically people with haemophilia B (PwHB) have experienced adverse clinical outcomes including joint bleeds, pain and arthropathy. The current management of severe and moderate haemophilia B in the UK is largely through the use of factor replacement therapy often given as prophylaxis. Despite this, research reveals reduced quality of life (QoL) and psychological burden in PwHB of all severities, highlighting unmet need. Contemporary therapeutic developments including extended half-life factor IX products, novel non-factor agents, and gene therapy offer opportunities to address treatment-related issues and improve QoL. We investigated what PwHB identify as meaningful when considering their personal goals and the potential for gene therapy. Methods UK men (aged >16 years) with severe or moderate haemophilia B were invited to take part in a face-to-face workshop or one-to-one online audio recorded interview. The recordings were transcribed verbatim, the transcripts were reviewed and coded using a process of inductive thematic analysis. We then used an iterative process to explore, review, reflect, and refine emergent codes and final themes. Ethical approval was not required based on the UK Health Research Authority decision tool. Results Nine men, all with severe haemophilia B, aged 21 to 64 (median 34 years) participated. All were diagnosed as children; four had a previous family history and all described themselves as ‘well treated’ with self-managed home therapy and prophylaxis. None had received gene therapy. Parallels were observed in their goals. Thematic analysis classified them as achievable, unachievable and future goals. Achievable goals: Achieved despite living with haemophilia B, included education and employment, strong personal relationships, having a family, travelling, having a good social life and being able to participate in sports. Unachievable goals: Things that participants felt unable to achieve either now or in the future. These included changing attitudes of others, a recognition of lost opportunities including more physical, sporting and employment activities. Future goals: Those which might be achieved as treatments evolve. This included being more physically active, improved QoL for affected individuals and their families, greater ability to travel, and optimism for future treatments and their potential impact for future generations. The goals of PwHB often focused on personally meaningful everyday activities. Seemingly modest changes in individual circumstances could impact on QoL and wellbeing. QoL improvements were defined as equitable access to education and employment, increased confidence in undertaking physical activities, and greater ability to travel. Treatment innovations were identified as enhancing individualised patient preferences and reduced fear of bleeding along with its sequelae of pain and limited mobility. Conclusion With improved access to novel therapeutic options, including gene therapy, PwHB are potentially able to experience equity to people without haemophilia in day-to-day life and activities. This will enable them to reimagine individual goals, their sense of what is ‘achievable’ and live their lives in personally meaningful ways.

MODELING THE NEXUS BETWEEN STUDENTS’ INTERACTION, SATISFACTION, AND ACCEPTANCE OF ONLINE LEARNING

The proliferation of communication technologies in recent years has significantly contributed to the swift transformation of education. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic at the beginning of 2020 caused further drastic changes in education, making digital transformation one of its most apparent attributes. This evolution has necessitated a call for more studies delving into students’ learning experiences in a fully online learning environment, especially in nations where online education is still in its nascent stage. By adopting the structural equation modeling approach, this study was intended to examine the effects of various types of interaction on student satisfaction and the impact of student satisfaction on their behavioral acceptance of online learning. The study also aimed to examine the mediating role of student satisfaction in the relationship between interaction and perceived acceptance. The participants comprised 336 students across multiple academic disciplines from a private university in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. A questionnaire was used for data collection. The results showed that student-teacher interaction and student-student interaction were significant determinants of student satisfaction, whereas student-content interaction and student-interface interaction yielded opposite outcomes. In addition, of the four types of interaction, satisfaction only mediated the relationships of student-teacher interaction and student-student interaction with perceived acceptance. These results emphasize the importance of fostering meaningful interaction activities between teachers and students, as well as among students themselves, in enhancing student satisfaction and further boosting the prospects of online education in today’s digital world.

Psycho-Personal Variables on Social Media Engagement of Students in the Akwa Ibom State

The study investigated influence of psycho-personal variables on social media engagement of students. The descriptive research design was used for the study. Three research questions and three corresponding hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. A sample size of 200 was drawn from the population using simple random sampling technique. A structured questionnaire titled “Personal Variables and Social Media Engagement Questionnaire” (PVSMEQ) was used as instrument for data collection. A face validation method was adopted to establish the validity of the instrument. The reliability of the instrument was ascertained using the test-retest method and a reliability coefficient index of 0.70 was obtained. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions while independent t-test was used to test the null hypotheses at .05 level of significance. The findings showed that: there is no significant difference in social media engagement of students based on age and gender. The result also revealed that there is significant difference in social media engagement of students based on self-concept. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that parents should encourage their children/wards to engage only in meaningful and productive social media activities.

Durvalumab and tremelimumab in combination with metronomic oral vinorelbine for recurrent advanced cervical cancer: an open-label phase I/II study

BackgroundThe MOVIE phase I/II trial (NCT03518606) evaluated the safety and antitumor activity of durvalumab and tremelimumab combined with metronomic oral vinorelbine in patients with advanced tumors. We present the results...

A tale of be(com)ing a Sport Nutritionist: Reflexive insights from a researcher-practitioner entering the field.

Qualitative research can facilitate an understanding of the richness and complexity of human experience, shedding light on multifaceted relationships that exist within sporting environments. Within the field of sport nutrition, such immersive methods are not commonplace. Yet could offer a significant contribution to our understanding and help practitioners navigate their values and identity within the challenging world of high-performance sport. The first author, a neophyte sport nutrition researcher-practitioner, reflects upon her experience over a four-year period of integrating into a high-performance organisation and embarking upon a research programme and career as a sport nutritionist. Drawing on field notes, reflexive journal entries, and regular research team discussions, three moments of discovery are shared: 1) Navigating the transition into high-performance sport, 2) Understanding the performance pressures and emotional burden experienced by athletes, and 3) Negotiating collaboration in the nutritionist-athlete relationship. Through this confessional tale, we recognise the development of a sport nutritionist's values and identity is unlikely to be smooth or linear. Instead, it may be a bumpy voyage of self-inquiry and discovery, shaped by diverse cultural experiences. To help future sport nutrition researcher-practitioners entering the field, we offer three meaningful development activities including 1) engaging in reflexive practice with critical friends to explore the dilemmas and uncertainties that may impact personal and professional development, 2) fostering intellectual candour when engaging in reflexive practice to facilitate self-discovery and growth, and 3) prioritise reading the growing literature on sport and organisational culture to inform and influence the delivery of sport nutrition practice.

Introducing a Sound-based Music Education in early childhood: the role of sonic and musical tools in the development of teleomusicality

ABSTRACT In recent years, and within the scope of moving towards more inclusive and democratic classrooms, some scholars have proposed developing approaches to Music Education that depart from sound and sounding phenomena as larger categories that might incorporate the diverse trajectories and life experiences of children. In accordance with this initial position, this article correspondingly examines just what sonic and musical tools might more easily afford young children with meaningful interactions with sound and their sonic environments in the framework of developing Sound-based Music Education for early childhood. Our findings highlight the importance of introducing new sonic tools – including recording, amplification, and augmented listening – into developing diversified and meaningful musical activities with young children. These findings also simultaneously highlight the need to develop new definitions of music, extending to the entire sound pallet that surrounds us, and representative of the different musical paths and identities that children develop throughout their lives.

ДВА ВЗГЛЯДА НА ГИМНАСТИКУ: ЛЕВ ТОЛСТОЙ И НИКОЛАЙ ЧЕРНЫШЕВСКИЙ

The article examines the perception of gymnastics discourse by Russian writers in the 1840s–1850s. In the 19th century gymnastics acquired new content as a special theory and practice: the attention of doctors and teachers was drawn to the mechanics of movement, which was usually considered in the context of achievements in anatomy and physiology. In Russia, gymnastics discourse was formed in the late 1820s – early 1830s. However, the fashion for visiting gyms appeared only in the mid-19th century. One of the first writers to fully respond to the “new project” of gymnastics was V. A. Sollogub, who satirically interpreted the fashionable practice in the collection “Features of St. Petersburg Life in 1847”. The focus of our research is the refraction of the concept of gymnastics in the understanding of L. N. Tolstoy and N. G. Chernyshevsky. The positions of these authors are in many ways opposite to each other. So, for “young” Tolstoy, gymnastics is a part of a grandiose program to streamline life (“the comprehensive development of everything that exists”), which makes it possible to overcome the destructive influence of society, which is characteristic of the writer’s worldview of the late 1840s and early 1850s, consistent with his passion for gymnastics, but does not proceed from it. Chernyshevsky, unlike Tolstoy, sees in this bodily practice only a certain addition to socially useful work, he does not practice gymnastics, and gymnastics, from his point of view, can bring not only benefits but also harm if it becomes an obsession that displaces any meaningful activity.

Loncastuximab tesirine with rituximab in patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma: a single-centre, single-arm, phase 2 trial.

Loncastuximab tesirine with rituximab in patients with relapsed or refractory follicular lymphoma: a single-centre, single-arm, phase 2 trial.

ПОНЯТИЙНОЕ НАПОЛНЕНИЕ ПРЕПОДАВАНИЯ ПРЕДМЕТОВ В ОБЩЕОБРАЗОВАТЕЛЬНОМ ПРОЦЕССЕ

The proposed approaches meet modern requirements for the educational process, including the Federal State Educational Standard, which makes them relevant for implementation in schools. The article considers a modern classification system of concepts, which differs from traditional approaches, and proposes a new technology for introducing definitions of concepts. This allows for a more effective organization of the learning process. The purpose of the article is to familiarize subject teachers and organizers of the general educational process with the scientific foundations and technology for introducing definitions of concepts at the level of modern ideas about the meaningful activity of the brain. Research methods. The author analyzes existing approaches to conceptual thinking and its role in the educational process, and analyzes classification systems. The author implements the technology for introducing definitions of concepts in the process of teaching subjects in schools. The processing of research results is based on the set-theoretical approach to the study of statistical ensembles. The result is mastering the technology of defining concepts by the majority of students. The novelty of the article lies in the focus on the conceptual thinking of students. The article focuses on the importance of developing students’ productive scientific thinking through conceptual design of the educational process. This emphasizes the need for a clear understanding and use of concepts in teaching. The practical significance lies in the fact that the author offers a technology for introducing concepts, gives specific methodological recommendations for introducing concepts and quantities into the educational process, which can significantly improve the understanding of educational material. The article offers clear and practical instructions for teachers on the implementation of the technology for defining concepts, which can improve the quality of teaching and understanding of educational material by students. The article emphasizes the importance of motivational and rehabilitation work with students, which can help cope with demotivation, especially among middle school students.

USING THE INTERPRETIVE FRAMEWORK TO CREATE AND DELIVER MEANINGFUL GROUP ACTIVITIES FOR OLDER ADULTS

Abstract Activity programming is recognized as a vital component in supporting engagement and improving quality of life for older adults. Despite the ubiquity of such programs and a plethora of research exploring both why meaningful activities are important for older adults and what makes an activity meaningful, current guidelines for activity development fail to offer a standardized framework. Without a clear framework for developing meaningful group activities, a potential for inconsistencies in activity appeal, quality, and effectiveness exists. This paper suggests an innovative solution by drawing on the field of interpretation—a discipline traditionally associated with environmental, historical, and cultural education. Interpretation provides principles and practical guidance for creating engaging, relevant, enjoyable, and personalized experiences for a wide range of audiences. In this paper, we present a brief history of interpretation and describe its principles, applications, and the “interpretative equation.” Using data from field notes collected during a study of an online nature-based group activity in an assisted living community, we describe how the program was developed, implemented and adapted in alignment with the elements of the interpretive equation. This equation combines activity-related knowledge (e.g. gaining a deeper understanding of the environment presented online), an understanding of participants (e.g. increasing knowledge of individual’s dementia-related support needs), and appropriate techniques (e.g., incorporating reminiscence) to achieve an interpretive “opportunity” (i.e., a meaningful activity in our formulation). Our results demonstrate how interpretation can be a powerful tool in bridging the gap between the theory and practice of meaningful activity development.

MEANINGFUL ACTIVITY IN ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENTS WITH DEMENTIA: RESULTS FROM THE MAC-4-BSD STUDY

Abstract Engagement in meaningful activity is beneficial for assisted living (AL) residents with dementia and may help to reduce behavioral symptoms and improve quality of life. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a theory-based approach, Meaningful Activity for Managing Behavioral Symptoms of Distress (MAC-4-BSD), for decreasing behavioral symptoms and increasing engagement in meaningful activity. It was hypothesized that residents exposed to MAC-4-BSD will demonstrate reduced behavioral symptoms, increased meaningful activity engagement and quality of life at 4 months compared to those exposed to education only. Using a cluster randomized controlled trial with repeated measures design, this study included 71 residents with dementia from 5 communities. Residents were evaluated at baseline and 4 months. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the sample and evaluate feasibility. Linear mixed models were used to determine effectiveness. Most participants were female (n=52, 73%), and White (n=62, 87%) with a mean age of 85 years (SD=8.2). The MAC-4-BSD intervention was feasible to implement with regard to delivery, receipt, and enactment. Preliminary effectiveness was demonstrated based on increased engagement in meaningful activity (b=7.69, p=.005), improved quality of life (b=3.74, p=.03), and decreased staff distress related to residents’ behavioral symptoms (b=-1.83, p=.037) among those exposed to MAC-4-BSD versus the control group. There was no change in the severity or number of behavioral symptoms. These findings demonstrate that engagement in meaningful activity is a promising approach that can be used to help improve the quality of life for AL residents with dementia.

CO-PRODUCED IDEAS FOR SMART HOME TECHNOLOGIES TO SUPPORT ENGAGEMENT IN MEANINGFUL ACTIVITIES

Abstract While research in the field of technology is surging, research on older adults playing an active role in designing and developing smart home technology (SHT) to enhance usability and adoption is lacking. It is important to co-develop products with potential users to better match their needs and desires. This study aims to generate ideas about SHT that can enhance the use and adoption of SHT that can support engagement in meaningful activities while ageing. The research circle methodology was utilized to elicit co-produced ideas for SHT and their functions with participants from different generations (30-39, 50-59 and 70-79 years old; n=9), together with two professionals with expertise in SHT and four researchers. The strength of research circle methodology is knowledge translation through the collaborative effort of participants. The findings revealed that the participants preferred SHT which can support independence, engagement in social experiences, and participation in meaningful activities while ageing, rather than smart home appliances or full home automation. Moreover, SHT which can create a stimulating environment to positively impact physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors were highlighted. Some ideas generated were multi-purpose functions and a system that can analyze patterns for monitoring activities and prevention of disability or its progression. Non-technology support such as informal carers and neighborhood and community support were also prioritized. Our study highlights the benefits of collaboration among diverse stakeholders (older adults, informal carers, technology professionals and researchers) to generate ideas about preferences for SHT that can better support the needs and desires of older adults.

FEASIBILITY OF VIRTUAL COMPANIONSHIP AND ACTIVITIES FOR PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA: MEMORI CORPS TRIAL

Abstract The majority of persons living with dementia (PLWD) are cared for at home by a family care partner. Social isolation, the need for meaningful activities, and care partner respite are common unmet care needs for PLWD. Home and community-based services such as Adult Day Care and friendly visitor programs have been instrumental in addressing these needs. However, not all families prefer out-of-home services, some lack service access, and few of these services are tailored specifically for PLWD. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted most services. This study evaluates the feasibility of providing virtual companionship and meaningful activities via Zoom to community-residing PLWD. Sixty-two dyads (PLWD and family care partner) and 52 trained volunteers (ages 55+), participated in a 12-week intervention. Individualized activity plans were developed based on the PLWD’s personal history, roles, interests, and current functional level. Activity sessions were offered up to five times a week for up to one–hour per session, primarily through Zoom. Advantages of virtual delivery included the ability to serve dyads across a large geographic area, resource efficiency, session flexibility allowing individual and group sessions, and the capability to continue services during participant travel. Drawbacks included low initial technology literacy levels of participants (e.g., session scheduling, joining, screen sharing), technical issues (e.g., hardware, Wi-Fi connection issues), need for in-home help for session setup on computer, limited selection of potential activities, and limited ability to evaluate and address environmental barriers impacting sessions. Overall, virtual implementation was feasible and allowed PLWD access to meaningful activity and socialization.

Identifying Coping Strategies and Coping Resources among People with Spinal Cord Injury during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objectives: Prior research stresses the importance of effective coping strategies for positive adaptation, enhanced resilience, personal growth, and increased psychological health. Unfortunately, little research has investigated how Koreans with physical disabilities dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to identify coping strategies and resources that Koreans with physical disabilities applied during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Using a purposeful criterion sampling strategy, we conducted semi-structured indepth interviews. A total of 15 participants (11 men and 4 women) who were between 22 and 65 years of age participated in the study. Content mapping and content mining questions were used. We analyzed data qualitatively using the constant comparative method to generate emergent themes. Results: To deal with various COVID-related challenges, we identified 3 salient themes used as coping strategies by participants: (1) engaging in meaningful activities, (2) improving social and emotional support, and (3) experiencing resilience. Conclusions: Our findings address qualitative evidence that Korean adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) actively engaged in various activities, maintained and developed closer relationships, and experienced resilience to deal with COVID-19 related stressors. These strategies suggest the importance of effective coping strategies and resources as a catalyst for health and wellbeing of people with SCI.

UNDERSTANDING ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENT EXPERIENCE AMONG RESIDENTS WITH DEMENTIA IN LONG-TERM CARE HOMES

Abstract Recreational and meaningful activities in long-term care homes are crucial in promoting well-being among residents with dementia. While existing research primarily focuses on planned activities facilitated by staff, little attention has been given to self-directed activities initiated by residents themselves, reflecting their intrinsic motivation, lifestyle, and lifelong interests such as walking, gardening, meal preparation and other household activities. In this study, activity is defined as personally meaningful behavior, including both programmed and self-directed activities, and supported by social and/or physical environmental stimuli. Utilizing critical ethnography in a long-term care home in Canada, our research aims to: 1) gather descriptive data on the types, diversity and process of residents’ activity engagement, and 2) examine the care home setting in its natural context to uncover the social practices, built environmental features and underlying organizational discourses that influence activity engagement. Observations will focus on residents’ engagement in various activities and their interactions with staff and the physical environment. Interviews will be conducted with activity staff and non-activity staff (e.g., care aides, nurses) to explore their perspectives on activity engagement, person-centered approach, and their respective roles in promoting engagement. This study offers insights into residents’ experiences with both structured and self-directed activities, and the influence of the care home’s social and physical environments on engagement. The study addresses the knowledge gap in meaningful engagement through self-directed activities and the role of social and physical environments. Fieldwork will be completed in summer and preliminary findings based on interviews and initial observations will be presented.

BRICKS FOR BETTER BRAINS©: STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE ENGAGEMENT IN PERSONS LIVING WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract The Bricks for Better Brains© activity is an intervention to slow down the progression of cognitive decline for persons living with dementia. The activity utilizes various carefully selected, interlocking bricks (LEGO®) in bright colors as an innovative medium for stimulating participants’ creative capacities, using visual perception and motor sensory skills, as well as strengthening social engagement. Cognitive impairments can present unique challenges for effectively engaging this population in meaningful activities. An in-person observational study was conducted as a preliminary exploration of strategies to increase engagement of persons living with dementia in activities with viable therapeutic potential using The Bricks for Better Brains© protocol. The study consisted of two groups (five males and fifteen females total) of people 75 years of age and older living with moderate-to-severe dementia and residing in an institutional care setting. Four activity modification strategies were tested – modification to objects and property; modification to space demands; modification to social demands; and modification to sequence and timing. All modifications in space demands increased engagement. Modification in objects and property, sequence and timing, and social demands were positive for the group but showed mixed efficacy for individual. These results support the person-centered care model and highlighted the importance of creating stimulating environments by understanding how people living with dementia interact with their surroundings. By identifying efficient activity modification strategies we can increase activity engagement and improve the quality of life of the people living with dementia. Future studies will need to include the reliability of observational measures.