Enhancing Daily Life Participation of Dementia Patients: Visual Cue-Based Activity Scheduling Strategy

Objective : This study aimed to explore the effectiveness and clinical applicability of visual cue provision and activity scheduling strategies as non-pharmacological interventions to promote daily living participation among individuals with dementia. In particular, the review focused on how these strategies influence orientation, emotional stability, and self-directed participation in dementia care. Methods : A literature search was conducted through PubMed, DBpia, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2010 and 2024. Inclusion criteria were studies applying visual cues or activity scheduling interventions for individuals with dementia. Results : The findings suggest that visual cues are more effective than verbal information for individuals with dementia, as they impose a lower cognitive load and are easier to understand intuitively. Visual supports were effective in reducing anxiety and improving orientation. Activity scheduling, by introducing structure and repetition into daily routines, enhanced predictability and encouraged self-directed behavior and participation. It also contributed to the reduction of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and helped relieve caregiver burden. The integration of both strategies was found to have complementary effects, leading to improved intervention outcomes. Conclusion : In conclusion, visual information provision and activity scheduling hold strong potential as promising non-pharmacological strategies for improving the quality of life of individuals with dementia and enhancing the quality of care. Further research is needed to develop customized intervention designs tailored to cognitive characteristics and care environments of persons with dementia and to assess their feasibility in clinical settings.