29. THE MAKING ENGAGEMENT MEANINGFUL THROUGH ORGANIZED ROUTINE INTERACTION (MEMORI) CORPS PROGRAM: A DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF PARTICIPANT SATISFACTION

Abstract

Introduction

Virtual companionship services that utilize volunteers to engage with community-living persons with dementia (PWD) may be a cost-effective and sustainable way to improve behavioral outcomes, quality of life, and reduce caregiver (CG) strain. However, there is limited evidence about acceptability, feasibility, and perceived benefits of such programs. This study evaluates satisfaction with MEMORI Corps, a 12-week virtual companionship and activity program, among PWD and CGs who participated in a pilot randomized controlled trial.

Methods

Online program satisfaction surveys were completed by CGs of PWD who received the intervention. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize 3 major domains: acceptability and feasibility of program components, perceived program impact on the PWD, and perceived program impact on the CG.

Results

Nearly 90% of CGs reported excellent/good feasibility and acceptability for all 22 program aspects. GREATER THAN 50% of CGs agreed with 8/11 perceived benefits the PWD received from the program. The greatest perceived benefits were that the PWD enjoyed the volunteer’s companionship and the activity sessions. ≥70% of CGs disagreed that the program made things worse, was distressing/upsetting, or was boring for the PWD. GREATER THAN 50% of CGs agreed with 13/16 perceived benefits personally received from the program. The greatest perceived benefits personally received were the happiness it brought CGs to see the PWD engaging with the volunteer and the time it allowed CGs for themselves.

Conclusions

CGs reported high satisfaction with MEMORI Corps overall. They also identified areas with lower satisfaction, including program orientation and knowing program expectations, which provide opportunities for enhancement.