Environmental and Sensory Intervention for Nursing Home Residents With Dementia Who Exhibit Persistent Vocalizations

After enrolling in the study, participants will participate in three study visits. During the first two visits, study personnel will observe the nursing home resident to collect data on the resident's vocalizing behaviors (persistent vocalizations, PVs). These visits will last for roughly six hours, one during the day shift and one during the evening shift. The third visit will last approximately 90 minutes. During this visit, study personnel will observe vocalizing behaviors before, during, and after the EASE intervention is in use. Residents will also wear a watch for all three visits that records information about their heart rate and stress levels. All visits will occur in the resident's natural environment- either their room or common space and will be scheduled at the convenience of the resident and NH staff. The aims of the study are: Aim 1: Examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the EASE to reduce PVs among NH residents. Aim 2: Evaluate the NH staff perception of the acceptability of the EASE within 48 hours post-intervention. Aim 3: Examine the mechanism of action of the EASE.