Method
Participants and Procedure
This methodological study used a prospective, nonexperimental, descriptive research design. Guardian informed consent was obtained for all participants, with the exception of one participant who signed her own informed consent statement with her family’s approval. When possible, assent forms were signed by participants in conjunction with guardian informed consent. Four sites providing care to individuals with AD (2 inpatient programs and 2 day care programs) participated in the study. The administrative contact at each site aided in the recruitment of participants. Inclusion criteria were: probable diagnosis of AD, medical stability, and ambulation with or without an assistive device or with handheld guiding assistance of one person. Exclusion criteria were: overt neuromuscular or musculoskeletal problems, acute cardiac or pulmonary conditions, and sur- gery within the previous 6 months.