Development of a nocturnal behavior taxonomy of older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

The concept being studied was nocturnal behaviors of persons diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Maslow's theory of human motivation and development served as the conceptual perspective for this exploratory study. The purposes of this study were: (1) to identify nocturnal behaviors of persons diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease; and (2) to develop a taxonomy that characterized these identified nocturnal behaviors. Eleven caregivers who were each providing care in the home for a family member with Alzheimer's disease were interviewed. Data were systematically obtained using demographic data sheets, guided interview questions, and a behavior checklist. The classification of two major and five minor categories along with their 22 activity categories comprised the taxonomy of nocturnal behaviors. Presentation of the findings included a narrative description of the analysis of data. Through comparative analysis, a variety of nocturnal behaviors were identified and supported.