Research

19 pages, 482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Language Learning for People Living with Dementia and Their Caregivers: Feasibility and the Quality of Experience

by Mariana Vega-Mendoza, Robbie S. Norval, Brittany Blankinship and Thomas H. Bak

Healthcare 2024, 12(7), 717; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12070717 - 25 Mar 2024

Viewed by 595

Background: A body of research from around the world has reported positive effects of bilingualism on cognitive ageing and dementia. However, little is known about whether foreign language learning could be applied as an intervention for people already living with dementia. Yet, before [...] Read more.

Background: A body of research from around the world has reported positive effects of bilingualism on cognitive ageing and dementia. However, little is known about whether foreign language learning could be applied as an intervention for people already living with dementia. Yet, before it is possible to determine the efficacy of language courses as an intervention for people living with dementia (PLWD), it is necessary to establish whether such an intervention is feasible. Our study explored this possibility. Methods: We conducted an exploratory study to examine the feasibility and tolerability of 2-week Italian beginner courses for PLWD in early stages and their family carers in two Scottish Dementia Resource Centres (DRCs). The courses were delivered by trained tutors from Lingo Flamingo, a social enterprise specialising in language teaching for older learners and learners with dementia. Twelve PLWD and seven carers participated in the study. Focus groups preceded and followed the courses. Additional post-course open interviews with the DRC managers were conducted, with a follow-up via telephone approximately one year later. Results: Qualitative content analysis resulted in 12 themes, 5 reflected in the interview schedule and 7 arising from the focus groups and interviews. Overall, the courses were perceived positively by PLWD, carers, and DRC managers, although a few logistically and linguistically challenging aspects were also mentioned. The courses were found to positively impact both the individual by increasing self-esteem and producing a sense of accomplishment as well as the group by creating a sense of community. Notably, no adverse effects (in particular no confusion or frustration) were reported. Conclusion: The positive outcomes of our study open a novel avenue for future research to explore foreign language training in dementia as an intervention and its implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

11 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Meaning in Life” Mediates the Relationship between Loneliness and Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Chanhee Kim and Jiyoung Chun

Healthcare 2024, 12(5), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12050584 - 04 Mar 2024

Viewed by 749

Abstract

Background: Loneliness was found to be a commonly experienced feeling among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and is considered to be a high-risk factor for depressive symptoms. Maintaining meaning in life has been found to be a protective resource for mental health [...] Read more.

Background: Loneliness was found to be a commonly experienced feeling among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and is considered to be a high-risk factor for depressive symptoms. Maintaining meaning in life has been found to be a protective resource for mental health among older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the mediating effects of an individual’s meaning in life in the relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms among older Korean adults. Methods: The data were obtained from a sample of 213 community-dwelling older adults aged over 65. The instruments were the UCLA Loneliness Scale, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Meaning in Life Questionnaire. Results: Loneliness was positively associated with depressive symptoms and negatively associated with the presence of and search for meaning among older adults. The presence of meaning mediated the relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms but the search for meaning did not. The search for meaning mediated the relationship between loneliness and depressive symptoms through the presence of meaning. Conclusions: Our study findings suggest that efforts to reduce loneliness and improve meaning in life should be undertaken to prevent depressive symptoms among older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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16 pages, 1868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Program Evaluation and Refinement of the “Safe Functional Home Exercise” Program for Improving Physical Activity in Older People with Dementia Who Receive Home Care

by Den-Ching A. Lee, Michele L. Callisaya, Terry P. Haines and Keith D. Hill

Healthcare 2024, 12(2), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12020166 - 10 Jan 2024

Viewed by 824

Abstract

Introduction: People with dementia who receive home care have low levels of physical activity participation. Objectives: To evaluate and refine a co-designed exercise program for home care clients with dementia, led by trained care support workers. Methods: An action research cycle whereby support [...] Read more.

Introduction: People with dementia who receive home care have low levels of physical activity participation. Objectives: To evaluate and refine a co-designed exercise program for home care clients with dementia, led by trained care support workers. Methods: An action research cycle whereby support workers, clients and carers (each n = 26) from the “Safe Functional Home Exercise” feasibility study were invited to complete an evaluation survey. Participants rated statements using Likert-style scales on (1) staff training, (2) staff confidence, (3) program support and (4) satisfaction. The participants could provide comments for situations that affected exercise performance, suggested improvements for staff training, program support and exercises. The co-design panel (original program designers) was reconvened to refine the exercise program. Results: Support workers (n = 19), clients (n = 15) and carers (n = 13) returned their surveys. Support workers (74–90%), carers (77–92%) and clients (100%) rated program support positively and were overall satisfied. Support workers (>80%) agreed that the training course was relevant and were confident in delivering the exercises to clients. Situations included “Covid isolation”, the client’s “poor medical condition” and “mood fluctuations” that made exercising difficult. Improvements included “making a client video” and “providing tips to motivate clients”. The co-design panel modified the exercise program. Conclusions: The “Safe Functional Home Exercise” program is the first exercise program co-designed for people with dementia. It is well accepted by support workers, people with dementia and carers. Utilising support workers to facilitate physical activity participation is potentially low-cost and scalable in home care. Future studies are needed to evaluate the refined program in home care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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10 pages, 268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Interaction and Life Satisfaction among Older Adults by Age Group

by Jeong-Hye Park and Se-Won Kang

Healthcare 2023, 11(22), 2951; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11222951 - 12 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1034

Abstract

This study examined the effect of social interaction on life satisfaction in older adults. A total of 8188 participants were selected according to the inclusion criteria. SPSS Windows software (version 23.0) was used for statistical analyses. Data were analyzed using the independent samples [...] Read more.

This study examined the effect of social interaction on life satisfaction in older adults. A total of 8188 participants were selected according to the inclusion criteria. SPSS Windows software (version 23.0) was used for statistical analyses. Data were analyzed using the independent samples t-test, chi-squared test, and multiple regression analysis with weights based on two age groups: 65–74 and ≥75 years. The results showed that social interaction factors influenced the life satisfaction of older adults. In the 65–74 age group, factors that statistically significantly increased life satisfaction were meeting children (β = 0.17, p < 0.001) and volunteer activities (β = 0.04, p = 0.007). In the ≥75 age group, factors that significantly increased life satisfaction were talking with friends (β = 0.11, p = 0.002), talking with children (β = 0.07, p = 0.013), using senior citizen community centers (β = 0.08, p = 0.001), and hobby club activities (β = 0.07, p = 0.001). In order to increase the life satisfaction of older adults, different ways to support social interactions need to be explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

14 pages, 1050 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multicomponent Training Improves the Quality of Life of Older Adults at Risk of Frailty

by Ana Moradell, David Navarrete-Villanueva, Ángel Iván Fernández-García, Narcis Gusi, Jorge Pérez-Gómez, Marcela González-Gross, Ignacio Ara, José Antonio Casajús, Alba Gómez-Cabello and Germán Vicente-Rodríguez

Healthcare 2023, 11(21), 2844; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11212844 - 28 Oct 2023

Viewed by 834

Abstract

Achieving a high quality of life in older adults can be difficult if they have limited physical function. The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship between baseline values and variations in body composition, fitness, and nutritional status on health-related quality [...] Read more.

Achieving a high quality of life in older adults can be difficult if they have limited physical function. The aims of this study were to evaluate the relationship between baseline values and variations in body composition, fitness, and nutritional status on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and to describe the effects of a 6-month multicomponent training (MCT) programme and a 4-month detraining period on HRQoL. A total of 106 participants with limited physical function were included in this study (age: 80.8 ± 5.9 years; 74 females) and were divided into two groups: control (CON) and intervention (TRAIN). HRQoL was measured using the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire and a visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS). Information on body composition, physical fitness, Mediterranean diet adherence, and nutritional status were obtained. Healthier baseline values for body composition, fitness and nutritional status were associated with better HRQoL (explaining 23.7–55.4%). The TRAIN group showed increased HRQoL during this 6-month MCT, showing group-by-time interaction (p < 0.05) and a deleterious effect of detraining. Changes in weight, arm strength, and aerobic capacity contributed to explaining 36% of the HRQoL changes obtained with MCT (all p < 0.05). This MCT improved HRQoL in older adults with limited physical function. However, HRQoL returned to baseline values after detraining. This study highlights the importance of performing ongoing programs in this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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11 pages, 499 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predictors of Variation in the Cognitive Function Trajectories among Older Adults Living Alone: A Growth Mixture Modeling Approach

by Soyoung Park, Seoyoon Lee and Kyu-Hyoung Jeong

Healthcare 2023, 11(20), 2750; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11202750 - 17 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1074

Abstract

Background: Considering the global aging population, this study investigates changes in cognitive function and predictive factors among older adults living alone. Methods: Using data collected from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA), the study examines 1217 participants to identify distinct cognitive change [...] Read more.

Background: Considering the global aging population, this study investigates changes in cognitive function and predictive factors among older adults living alone. Methods: Using data collected from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA), the study examines 1217 participants to identify distinct cognitive change patterns and the variables affecting them. Results: Two primary cognitive function change types emerged: “High-Level Declining Type” and “Low-Level Stable Type.” Although the former initially displayed normal cognitive function, it gradually declined over a period of 14 years until it reached mild cognitive impairment (MCI) levels by the year 2020. While the latter group had lower cognitive function from the beginning and remained stable throughout the study. Older age, female gender, rural residence, lower education, lower income, unemployment, and higher levels of depression were linked to a higher likelihood of belonging to the “Low-Level Stable Type”. Conclusions: The findings of these studies emphasize the need for proactive interventions and regular cognitive assessments for older individuals living alone, as cognitive impairment can develop even in individuals whose cognitive abilities are initially good. Also, tailored interventions should target specific demographic and socioeconomic groups to mitigate cognitive decline effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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6 pages, 202 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Exploring the Feasibility of a Self-Managed Lifestyle Intervention, Based on Exercise and Behaviour Support, as an Adjunct Therapy to Compression: A Sub-Study Focusing on People with Venous Leg Ulcers and Early Neuro-Degenerative Diseases (FISCU-NDD)

by Markos Klonizakis, Anil Gumber, Alexandra Morley, Michelle Horspool, Emma McIntosh, Maria Levesley, Jane McKeown and Pip Logan

Healthcare 2023, 11(20), 2728; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11202728 - 13 Oct 2023

Viewed by 800

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to adapt the “FISCU Home” intervention (a co-produced, self-managed and expert-supported lifestyle intervention comprising exercise and behaviour support aimed at people with Venous Leg Ulcers (VLUs), in a way that is suitable for the needs of [...] Read more.

Background: The aim of this study was to adapt the “FISCU Home” intervention (a co-produced, self-managed and expert-supported lifestyle intervention comprising exercise and behaviour support aimed at people with Venous Leg Ulcers (VLUs), in a way that is suitable for the needs of people with combined VLUs and early-stage, Neuro-degenerative diseases (NDDs), and to explore its feasibility (e.g., estimate rates of recruitment and completion of sessions, calculate study adherence rates, assess participant satisfaction via participant interviews, and assess ease of data collection) within this clinical sub-group. Methods: We recruited seven people belonging to this VLUs sub-group (e.g., people with early-stage dementia or Parkinson’s), who were ≥18 years’ old, had VLU(s) of diameter ≥1 cm, ABPI ≥ 0.8, had the ability to tolerate lower-leg compression and were receiving VLU treatment at home. In Phase 1, participants helped us adapt the intervention. In Phase 2 we carried out a 4-week “training crash-course”. This consisted of three, 1 h, self-managed, exercise sessions per week (12 sessions in total), among the participants that completed the interviews. For Phase 3, we carried out post-interviews with all participants to investigate their study experiences, which were analysed using content analysis. Results: All assessments were completed successfully (100% retention and assessment completion), with no exercise-related adverse events. All participants completed the 4-week intervention (100%; all sessions completed by all participants). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the adapted intervention is feasible, enjoyable and well-received, and has the potential to provide clinical benefits to the participants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

10 pages, 255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Support among Older Persons and Its Association with Smoking: Findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2018

by Ambigga Krishnapillai, Chee Cheong Kee, Suthahar Ariaratnam, Aida Jaffar, Mohd Azahadi Omar, Ridwan B. Sanaudi, Rajini Sooryanarayana, Ho Bee Kiau, Sazlina Shariff Ghazali, Noorlaili Mohd Tohit and Sheleaswani Inche Zainal Abidin

Healthcare 2023, 11(16), 2249; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11162249 - 10 Aug 2023

Viewed by 802

Abstract

Background: Globally, the average age of the world’s population of older people continues to rise and having a good social support network becomes increasingly relevant with the aging populace. Overall, in Malaysia, social support prevalence was low among older persons. This study was [...] Read more.

Background: Globally, the average age of the world’s population of older people continues to rise and having a good social support network becomes increasingly relevant with the aging populace. Overall, in Malaysia, social support prevalence was low among older persons. This study was conducted to determine the association between social support and smoking status among the older Malaysian population. Methods: Data were obtained from the National Health and Morbidity (NHMS) 2018 survey on the health of older Malaysian adults and analyzed. This cross-sectional population-based study used a two-stage stratified random sampling design. Sociodemographic characteristics, smoking status, and social support data were collected from respondents aged 60 years and more. A validated Malay language interviewer-administered questionnaire of 11-items, the Duke Social Support Index, was utilized to assess the social support status. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association of social support and smoking status among the respondents. Results: The prevalence of good social support was significantly higher among the 60–69 years old (73.1%) compared to the ≥80 years old respondents (50%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that respondents aged ≥80 years old were 1.7 times more likely to have poor social support compared to those aged 60–69 years. Respondents with no formal education were 1.93 times more likely to have poor social support compared to respondents who had tertiary education. Respondents with an income of <MYR 1000 were 1.94 times more likely to have poor social support compared to respondents with an income of >MYR 3000. Former smokers had good social support compared to current smokers (73.6% vs. 78.7%). For current smokers, they had poor social support, which is almost 1.42 times higher than that for non-smokers. Conclusion: There was poor social support among older people who were current smokers, had an increased age, had no formal education and had a low income. The findings obtained from this study could assist policymakers to develop relevant strategies at the national level to enhance the social support status among older smokers and aid in their smoking cessation efforts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

14 pages, 2491 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Ravi Shankar Reddy, Batool Abdulelah Alkhamis, Junaid Ahmed Kirmani, Shadab Uddin, Waseem Mumtaz Ahamed, Fuzail Ahmad, Irshad Ahmad and Abdullah Raizah

Healthcare 2023, 11(13), 1924; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11131924 - 03 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1360

Abstract

Cervical proprioception and its implications on postural stability are crucial in older adults. Understanding their relationship is important in understanding and preventing falls in older adults. This research aims to evaluate the proprioceptive, functional mobility, and limits of stability (LOS) variables among two [...] Read more.

Cervical proprioception and its implications on postural stability are crucial in older adults. Understanding their relationship is important in understanding and preventing falls in older adults. This research aims to evaluate the proprioceptive, functional mobility, and limits of stability (LOS) variables among two age groups: individuals aged 65 and above and those below 65. A secondary goal of the study is to analyze the relationship between cervical proprioception, functional mobility, and the LOS. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 participants each were included in the older and younger groups. Researchers employed the target reposition technique to assess cervical proprioception and measured the joint position error (JPE) in degrees. Functional mobility was estimated using the Berg balance scale (BBS) and timed up-and-go test (TUG). In addition, dynamic posturography was utilized to evaluate variables related to the LOS, including reaction time, maximum excursion, and directional control. Results: The magnitudes of the mean cervical JPE are larger (p < 0.001), and functional mobility (p < 0.001) and the LOS (p < 0.001) are impaired in older individuals compared to the younger ones. The cervical proprioception is significantly associated with functional mobility (p < 0.001), and the LOS (p < 0.001). Conclusion: In older adults aged above 65 years, cervical proprioception, functional mobility, and the LOS are impaired. Older adults with greater cervical JPE had more impaired functional mobility and LOS parameters. When evaluating or treating older adults with problems with their balance or falls, these factors should be considered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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39 pages, 855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Mass Media in Influencing the Lifestyle of the Elderly during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Lilia Sargu, Felicia Andrioni, Lavinia Popp, Adrian Netedu, Maria Cristina Bularca, Adrian Otovescu, Gabriela Motoi, Ion Negrilă, Cosmin Goian, Claudiu Coman and Gianina Chirugu

Healthcare 2023, 11(13), 1816; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11131816 - 21 Jun 2023

Viewed by 1278

Abstract

The elderly represent one of the categories that was most affected by the pandemic period. The purpose of this research was to analyze the ways in which mass media and very often contradictory information flows influenced the lives and personal communications of the [...] Read more.

The elderly represent one of the categories that was most affected by the pandemic period. The purpose of this research was to analyze the ways in which mass media and very often contradictory information flows influenced the lives and personal communications of the Romanian elderly population during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to conduct the research, we used a mixed-methods approach. For the quantitative research, we gave a questionnaire to the elderly population of Romania, and for the qualitative research, we conducted interviews. Our quantitative sample included 881 retired persons with an age between 55 and 94 years old; the mean age was 71.48 years old with 6.6 years standard deviation. The elderly described the pandemic period using negative words: fear, loneliness, anxiety, disaster; the channel they mostly watched and trusted was the TV; they were aware of the measures they had to take to protect themselves; they missed most of the meetings with the family and the main problems they had were represented by loneliness, the inability to be with their families or the lack of access to medical services. The elderly’s mass media consumption during the pandemic was mostly represented by TV consumption; the information spread by mass media was sometimes contradictory; it influenced their behavior and may have generated feelings of anxiety among them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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13 pages, 263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of a Beauty Program on Self-Perception of Aging and Depression among Community-Dwelling Older Adults in an Agricultural Area in Taiwan

by Ya-Ling Wu and Shan-Ru Chao

Healthcare 2023, 11(10), 1377; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11101377 - 10 May 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1308

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a beauty program on the self-perception of aging and depression among the community-dwelling older adults in an agricultural area in Taiwan. Twenty-nine older adults aged 65 and above in one agricultural community care center completed [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a beauty program on the self-perception of aging and depression among the community-dwelling older adults in an agricultural area in Taiwan. Twenty-nine older adults aged 65 and above in one agricultural community care center completed the program. Based on cosmetic therapy, the beauty program consisted of 13 sessions focused on facial skin care, make-up application, and massage with essential oils. Each 90 min session of the program was conducted in groups once a week for 13 weeks. This study applied the mixed methods approach, and data were gathered through questionnaire surveys, interviews, and observation. Before and after the beauty program, the elderly individuals’ self-perceptions of aging and depression were assessed using the Attitudes towards Old People Scale (ATOPS) and Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire (TDQ), respectively. The participants’ ATOPS scores after the program were significantly higher than those examined before the program (p < 0.001), and their TDQ scores were significantly lower than those before the program (p < 0.001). Additionally, the participants’ body images were improved, the participants disrupted their stereotypes about makeup, and they were willing to gradually maintain their appearance. Overall, the beauty program was effective for enhancing the self-perceptions of aging and reducing depression in older adults in rural Taiwan. Further research with a larger population of older individuals, male older adults, or frail older adults is needed to examine the specific effects of the beauty program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

21 pages, 7627 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intergenerational Esthetic Co-Creation Program for Promotion of Community Creative Aging

by Hsiu-Ching (Laura) Hsieh and Chun-Wei Liu

Healthcare 2023, 11(4), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11040516 - 09 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1319

Abstract

The world is facing rapid global aging. Global countries are concerned about the development of aging societies and related topics ranging from successful, healthy, and active aging in the past to the current creative aging (CA) perspective. However, in-depth research on applying esthetics [...] Read more.

The world is facing rapid global aging. Global countries are concerned about the development of aging societies and related topics ranging from successful, healthy, and active aging in the past to the current creative aging (CA) perspective. However, in-depth research on applying esthetics to promote community CA in Taiwan is lacking. To address this deficiency, the Hushan community in Douliu City, Yunlin County was selected as the research area, and the CA perspective was adopted to promote community CA through multi-stage intergenerational esthetic co-creation (IEC) workshops. A model for applying IEC workshops to promote CA was constructed. Using the action research approach, community CA enabled the elderly to identify with their inherent values, opening new possibilities for the provision of elderly social care. This study explored the psychological impacts of implementing IEC workshops on the elderly, analyzed their interactions with peers and youth, helped the elderly review their lives, analyzed relevant data to construct a practical model for applying IEC workshops to promote CA, and provided the data collected during the multi-stage applications of CA and an IEC model for promoting CA as a reference for future researchers, thereby opening new possibilities for sustainable care in aging societies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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Review

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11 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Perspectives on Aging and Quality of Life

by Shinichi Noto

Healthcare 2023, 11(15), 2131; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11152131 - 26 Jul 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1456

Abstract

The aging of the world’s population and the health problems accompanying it are becoming increasingly severe. Healthcare policies in developed countries focus on how to prevent and treat diseases associated with aging and how to maintain quality of life. Typical age-related diseases include [...] Read more.

The aging of the world’s population and the health problems accompanying it are becoming increasingly severe. Healthcare policies in developed countries focus on how to prevent and treat diseases associated with aging and how to maintain quality of life. Typical age-related diseases include deafness, cataracts, osteoarthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, and dementia. Although the mechanisms by which these diseases develop differ, they are all caused by the accumulation of molecular and cellular damage over time. In addition, age-related diseases can cause a decline in physical and mental functions and the ability to perform activities of daily living, as well as the loss of roles in society and a sense of fulfillment in life. Therefore, there is a need for treatment and measures to accurately grasp and maintain quality of life. This review aims to introduce areas and representative papers expected to be contributed to the special issue of “Aging and Quality of Life”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

21 pages, 421 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Occupational Therapy Interventions to Improve the Quality of Life of Older Adults with Dementia Living in Nursing Homes: A Systematic Review

by Cristian Uceda-Portillo, Sandra Aranda-Valero and Pedro Moruno-Miralles

Healthcare 2024, 12(9), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12090896 - 25 Apr 2024

Viewed by 137

Abstract

The increase in older adults with dementia presents challenges in promoting research to improve the quality of life of this population. The objective of this study was to assess the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions in improving the quality [...] Read more.

The increase in older adults with dementia presents challenges in promoting research to improve the quality of life of this population. The objective of this study was to assess the scientific evidence on the effectiveness of occupational therapy interventions in improving the quality of life of older adults over 65 years old with dementia living in nursing homes. The databases used were PubMed, Web of Science, OTSeeker, clinicaltrials.gov, Dialnet, Scopus, Cochrane, and SciELO between 2013 and 2023. The studies were selected and evaluated according to the Cochrane guidelines. The review was carried out following the PRISMA 2020 Statement. Sixteen articles met the inclusion criteria and were categorized into four groups according to the focus of the intervention: “meaningful activities/occupations”, “physical, cognitive and sensory functioning”, “performance areas”, and “physical and social environment and staff training”. The strength of evidence was moderate, and the risk of bias was low. The findings revealed that occupational therapy interventions based on participation in recreational activities, reminiscence, performance-based activities and the physical and social environment, and specialized staff training, could improve the perceived quality of life of older adults with dementia living in nursing homes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Quality of Life)

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