OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a 16-week video-based multiple training modality (MTM) program for dementia patients in Community Service Centers for Dementia (CSCDs) in Taiwan. DESIGN: Cluster Randomized controlled trial. SETTING: A total of 16 CSCDs across four counties in Taiwan. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 207 dementia patients and their caregivers, randomly clustered and assigned to an intervention group or a control group. INTERVENTION: The intervention group received a 16-week video-based MTM program including dynamic physical exercises and creative activities. The control group continued with regular activities at the CSCDs. MEASUREMENTS: Outcomes measured were behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q), caregiver burden using the Zarit's Burden Interview (ZBI), and caregiver depression using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D). These were assessed at baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS: The intervention group showed a significant reduction in appetite/eating distress compared to the control group (change in NPI scores: -0.2 versus 0, p = 0.026). While there was a trend toward reduced caregiver burden, the results were not statistically significant (change in ZBI scores: -3.1 versus -1.2, p = 0.306). No significant changes were observed in overall BPSD severity or caregiver depression. CONCLUSION: The video-based MTM program showed potential in improving specific neuropsychological symptoms, especially appetite/eating distress, in dementia patients. The program's ease of implementation suggests it could be expanded across CSCDs in Taiwan, with a recommendation for refinement to better support caregivers.

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