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Associate 2004-05

Sandy C Burgener

UI Chicago Nursing Institute

OPTIMIZING QUALITY OF LIFE OUTCOMES IN PERSONS WITH DEMENTIA

Professor Burgener’s main research area for the past fourteen years has been identifying variables associated with the quality of life in persons with dementia (e.g., Alzheimer’s Disease). Previous work has focused on a variety of personal, environmental, and caregiver-related variables associated with productive, positive outcomes for persons with dementia (PWD). Recently she completed a six-year longitudinal study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, that examined predictors of quality-of-life outcomes as PWDs move through the various stages of disease.

During her Center appointment, Professor Burgener plans to complete the major portion of a new book based on the findings of her NIH study. The book will include research-based interventions and guidelines. As it is designed as a guide for the person with the disease rather than for the family or institutional caregiver, the book will be a unique resource for persons with dementia.