Publication date: Aug 01, 2024

Few proven dementia-care programs are integrated into community-based agencies. We report on the acceptability and effectiveness of an evidence-based program, Care of People in their Environment (COPE), delivered by community-based agency staff. Pretest/post-test design with 3 data points (baseline, 3-month program completion, 6-month follow-up). COPE was delivered by 6 occupational therapists and 4 social workers at 2 agency sites with people living with dementia and caregivers. Staff assessed the interests and abilities of people living with dementia, home safety, caregiver challenges, and readiness to learn strategies. Staff provided dementia education, stress reduction, and nonpharmacological techniques tailored to caregiver-identified challenges. Acceptability (3- and 6-months), included completed sessions, upset with and confidence managing care challenges, strategies used, and program satisfaction. Effectiveness (3- and 6-months) included people living with dementia’s health events (falls, emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and 911 calls), rehospitalization risk and functional dependence; and caregiver well-being and readiness. Benefits by in-person (n = 188) versus virtual/hybrid (n = 46) delivery due to Coronavirus Disease-2019 were evaluated. Of 843 dyads screened, 271 (32. 1%) enrolled, 246 (90. 8%) completed COPE, and 234 (95. 1%) completed ≥1 follow-up. Regarding acceptability, caregivers completed about 8 sessions, reported improved confidence and upset (p 

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