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Lassell RKF, Tamayo V, Pena TA, Kishi M, Zwerling J, Gitlin LN, Brody AA. "When she goes out, she feels better:" co-designing a Green Activity Program with Hispanic/Latino people living with memory challenges and care partners. Front Aging Neurosci 2024; 16:1401255. [PMID: 38957542 PMCID: PMC11217360 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1401255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Utilizing a participatory approach, we sought to co-design a 12-week Green Activity Program (GAP) with Hispanic/Latino individuals living with memory challenges and their care partners, local outdoor professionals, and healthcare providers. Methods Participants were recruited via convenience and snowball sampling in the Bronx, New York with Hispanic/Latino persons living with memory challenges and care partners, outdoor activity professionals, and interdisciplinary healthcare providers/dementia experts. Co-design occurred iteratively with 5 focus groups and 4 individual interviews lasting 30-90 min and focused on program and research design. Sessions were recorded and transcribed. Utilizing directed content analysis data was coded using a priori codes program design and research design. Results 21 participants completed co-design activities: (n = 8 outdoor activity professionals, n = 6 Hispanic/Latino persons living with memory challenges and care partners, and n = 7 interdisciplinary healthcare providers/dementia experts). Participant preferences for program design were captured by subcodes session duration (30-90 min), frequency (4-8 sessions), and delivery modes (in-person and phone). Participants' preferred nature activities included group exercise and outdoor crafts [crocheting], outcomes of social participation, connectedness to nature, decreased loneliness, and stewardship were identified. Preferred language for recruiting and describing the program were "memory challenges," "Hispanic/Latino," and "wellbeing." Referral pathways were identified including community-based organizations and primary care. Conclusion Co-design was a successful form of engagement for people living with memory challenges that enabled participants to help design key elements of the GAP and research design. Our processes, findings, and recommendations for tailoring co-design to engage Hispanic/Latino people living with memory challenges can inform the development of other programs for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K. F. Lassell
- Department of Health and Wellness Design, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Regenstrief Institute, Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing (HIGN), NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York, NY, United States
| | - Valeria Tamayo
- Department of Health and Wellness Design, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Department of Art and Art Professions, NYU Steinhardt, New York, NY, United States
| | - Triana A. Pena
- Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing (HIGN), NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York, NY, United States
| | - Misa Kishi
- Arthur S. Abramson Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Jessica Zwerling
- The Saul R. Korey Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Laura N. Gitlin
- College of Nursing and Health Professions, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Abraham A. Brody
- Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing (HIGN), NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York, NY, United States
- Division of Geriatric Medicine and Palliative Care, Department of Medicine, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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Shoesmith E. Animal-assisted and robotic animal-assisted interventions within dementia care: A systematic review. DEMENTIA 2023; 22:664-693. [PMID: 36765455 PMCID: PMC10014823 DOI: 10.1177/14713012231155985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal-assisted interventions and robotic animal interventions are becoming increasingly popular to support the care of people with dementia and may have the potential to improve a range of psychosocial outcomes. This review aims to identify, describe, and compare animal-assisted and robotic animal interventions delivered to people with dementia, their characteristics, effectiveness, and the proposed mechanisms underlying any potential impact. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, PsycINFO, OVID Nursing, PubMed, CINAHL and Web of Science. Random-effects meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted to summarise studies that evaluated common outcomes (agitation, depression, quality of life). A narrative approach was used to synthesise other findings. RESULTS Fifty-one studies were included: 18 RCTs; 12 non-randomised trials, 13 cohort studies, 7 qualitative studies and one mixed-methods study. Meta-analyses were conducted for a small number of RCTs, with effectiveness of animal-assisted interventions demonstrated for agitation. Narrative findings suggested animal-assisted and robotic animal interventions may be promising in improving depression, agitation, and quality of life. Three potential mechanisms of action were identified for both animal-assisted and robotic animal interventions, namely enhancing social connections, providing engaging and meaningful activities, and the affect-generating aspect of the human-animal bond. A fourth mechanism was identified for animal-assisted interventions only: promoting physical activity. Robotic animals appear to have a place in complex human-animal relationships, but a greater understanding of robotic animal interventions is required to harness the benefits that may be derived from their use. CONCLUSION Delivering these interventions appear promising in improving psychosocial outcomes for people with dementia. As most included studies had methodological limitations, these findings are preliminary, but contribute to the body of evidence providing an understanding in terms of intervention characteristics and mechanisms of action. When developing intervention guidance, attention should be given to potential mechanisms and fundamental characteristics such as session content, delivery format and facilitator role.
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Investigation of physiological and psychological effects of robotic cat and betta fish therapies in hemodialysis patients: A randomized controlled study. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2022; 49:101647. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2022.101647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Figueiredo MDO, Alegretti AL, Magalhães L. Terapia ocupacional assistida por cães: uma revisão de escopo da literatura brasileira. CADERNOS BRASILEIROS DE TERAPIA OCUPACIONAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/2526-8910.ctoar2087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Terapeutas ocupacionais têm praticado a Terapia Assistida por Animais (TAA) incorporando cães em suas intervenções. A produção de conhecimento nacional sobre a Terapia Ocupacional Assistida por Cães foi analisada por meio de uma revisão de escopo. Esta investigação buscou obter respostas sobre quais populações têm sido focalizadas na Terapia Ocupacional Assistida por Cães no Brasil, quais os objetivos e resultados terapêuticos, de que forma o cão atuou neste processo, qual o treinamento necessário aos cães e qual a formação requerida ao terapeuta ocupacional para realizar tal terapia. A busca ocorreu nos periódicos nacionais de Terapia Ocupacional e na biblioteca Scielo.br por meio de descritores e critérios de inclusão. Não foram encontrados estudos da terapia ocupacional tendo cães como assistentes, mas sim sobre o cuidar de animais como uma ocupação humana e um papel ocupacional (n=4). Um estudo referiu a terapia ocupacional como uma das profissões que, no contexto estrangeiro, realiza a terapia assistida por cães com pessoas com deficiência e/ou sequelas físicas ou mentais, sendo os objetivos e resultados terapêuticos de reabilitação física ou cognitiva. A revisão revela que a produção nacional é incipiente, sobretudo se comparada à literatura estrangeira, que relata sobre a Terapia Ocupacional Assistida por Cães e informa sobre as populações, objetivos e resultados terapêuticos, a formação e competências necessárias ao terapeuta e o treinamento requerido ao cão. Reafirma-se a necessidade de estudos e de produção de conhecimento nacional para o embasamento teórico e diretrizes para a prática da Terapia Ocupacional Assistida por Cães no Brasil.
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Forget S, Pennequin V, Agli O, Bailly N. Brakes and levers to implement an animal-assisted intervention in nursing homes: Preliminary study. Complement Ther Med 2020; 56:102591. [PMID: 33197666 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing numbers of scientific studies have dealt with the benefits of animal assisted intervention programs (AAI). Although many positive effects have been identified, there are still few AAI programs in nursing homes. To date, no study has investigated special the difficulties in implementing such a program. The aim of this study was to explore the representations of this type of program among caregivers. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted between January and June 2019. Psychologists conducted 11 interviews with people working in nursing homes. The sample was based on different professions and on the fact that participants had already been involved in an IAA program. RESULTS The results were organized according to two main themes: brakes and levers. The results show that the brakes were raised quickly before the implementation of the project, but once the project had been implemented, the perceived beneficial effects multiplied and all those interviewed mentioned the benefits of animals. More than half of the caregivers interviewed mentioned animals as a lever, facilitating contact with elderly people suffering from dementia. Setting up a project upstream enhanced the success of this type of program. CONCLUSION The benefits perceived by the people interviewed are consistent with the scientific literature. The obstacles mentioned for implementing this type of program can be reduced by a rigorous and well-thought-out project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Forget
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France.
| | - Valérie Pennequin
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Oceane Agli
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Nathalie Bailly
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France
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Bray J, Brooker DJ, Garabedian C. What is the evidence for the activities of Namaste Care? A rapid assessment review. DEMENTIA 2019; 20:247-272. [DOI: 10.1177/1471301219878299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To assess the quality of research evidence for the different activity components for the psycho-social Namaste Care intervention for care home residents with advanced dementia. Design Namaste Care is a multi-component intervention delivered on a daily basis to people living with advanced dementia or people at end of life with dementia. A significant part of its operationalisation within care homes is the delivery of a number of activities delivered by trained in-house Namaste Care workers to a group of residents with similar high dependency needs. The Namaste Care workers focus on touch, music, nature, sensory experience, aromas and interactions with objects delivered in a way to enhance feelings of enjoyment and wellbeing. This review evaluated the evidence for using these activities with people living with advanced dementia. A systematic search of peer-reviewed research articles was conducted between November 2016 and September 2018 using search terms of activities used in Namaste Care. The quality of each accepted article was rated using the Rapid Evidence Assessment scale. Results The initial literature search returned 1341 results: 127 articles including 42 reviews were included. The majority of activity interventions yielded between 10 and 20 peer-reviewed papers. The use of smells and aromas, interacting with animals and dolls, the use of various forms of music (e.g. background music, singing, personalised music), nature, lighting, various forms of touch/massage and sensory interventions (including Snoezelen) all appear to have proven efficacy with people living with advanced dementia. Conclusions There is generally a limited number of research papers and reviews in this area, but overall there is a good evidence base for including these activities within Namaste Care for people living with advanced dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Bray
- Association for Dementia Studies, University of Worcester, UK
| | - Dawn J Brooker
- Association for Dementia Studies, University of Worcester, UK
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Briones MÁ, Pardo-García I, Escribano-Sotos F. Effectiveness of a Dog-Assisted Therapy Program to Enhance Quality of Life in Institutionalized Dementia Patients. Clin Nurs Res 2019; 30:89-97. [PMID: 31387390 DOI: 10.1177/1054773819867250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a dog-assisted therapy intervention to enhance quality of life in persons with dementia institutionalized in a public care home and to study its effect on the use of psychotropic medications. A dog-assisted therapy intervention was designed, in which 34 residents of a public care home in Cuenca (Spain) participated. The participants were assigned to two groups, an experimental and a control group. The program consisted of one 50-min session per week during 9 months. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to compare post-training values between groups, using baseline values as covariates. Our findings do seem to support the hypothesis that Animal-Assisted Therapy may contribute to enhancing quality of life for residents in an aged care home. However, aspects such as the format, time, and content of the sessions as well as their possibilities of reducing psychotropic medication require more research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabel Pardo-García
- School of Economics and Business Administration, Sociosanitary Research Center, Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), Albacete, Spain
| | - Francisco Escribano-Sotos
- School of Economics and Business Administration, Sociosanitary Research Center, Castilla-La Mancha University (UCLM), Albacete, Spain
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Mandrá PP, Moretti TCDF, Avezum LA, Kuroishi RCS. Animal assisted therapy: systematic review of literature. Codas 2019; 31:e20180243. [PMID: 31271584 DOI: 10.1590/2317-1782/20182018243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE to verify the applications of AAT in health by performing a systematic review of the literature. RESEARCH STRATEGY a survey was carried out in four databases with the descriptors: animal assisted therapy, horse assisted therapy, speech therapy. SELECTION CRITERIA article published between 2010 and 2018, in Portuguese or English, free electronic access and that mentioned the characteristics of the intervention program. DATA ANALYSIS criteria: casuistry, area of knowledge, program characteristic, type of research, year and language of publication, nationality, periodical and impact factor. RESULTS 43 articles published in 30 journals, 16 with impact factor, were reviewed. Clinical studies prevailed (93.02%), 37.20% were from Medicine, the population studied had different diagnoses and ages, 55.81% with adults / elderly. AAT was used preferentially for physical rehabilitation (67.44%) and the main mediator was the dog, mentioned in 72.09% of the articles. Eight (n = 8) programs with a focus on communication intervention were described. CONCLUSION There is scientific evidence on the use of AAT published in the period studied, in Brazil and in the world. The programs were used by different health and education professionals. The AAT goals were specific to the profile of the participants, and consistent with the characteristics of the mediator animal and the site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Pupin Mandrá
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto - FMRP, Universidade de São Paulo - USP - São Paulo (SP), Brasil
| | - Thaís Cristina da Freiria Moretti
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto - FMRP, Universidade de São Paulo - USP - São Paulo (SP), Brasil
| | - Leticia Alves Avezum
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto - FMRP, Universidade de São Paulo - USP - São Paulo (SP), Brasil
| | - Rita Cristina Sadako Kuroishi
- Departamento de Ciências da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto - FMRP, Universidade de São Paulo - USP - São Paulo (SP), Brasil
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Sánchez-Valdeón L, Fernández-Martínez E, Loma-Ramos S, López-Alonso AI, Bayón Darkistade E, Ladera V. Canine-Assisted Therapy and Quality of Life in People With Alzheimer-Type Dementia: Pilot Study. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1332. [PMID: 31244731 PMCID: PMC6563674 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND With the aim of improving the quality of life of people with Alzheimer's disease, primarily as regards behavioral and psychological symptoms, we implemented canine-assisted therapy in a group of people with this disease. METHODS We conducted a quasi-experimental study, with a simple pre-post case series design. Participants comprised 10 Alzheimer's day care center users presenting severe or very severe cognitive decline. The measurement instrument employed was the Quality of Life in Late-Stage Dementia (QUALID) scale. RESULTS By the end of the therapy, 100% of participants showed an improvement in physical, behavioral, and psychological aspects. The total scores of the QUALID scale for the three different evaluation times (before the therapy and 6 and 12 months after starting) after the canine-assisted therapy intervention were smaller and less dispersed. The total score for the QUALID scale decreased significantly (p < 0.05) at 6 and 12 months after starting therapy. An analysis by item revealed that the scores of all of them fell during the course of the therapy. DISCUSSION Our study provides evidence of the significant benefits of canine-assisted therapy for quality of life in people with Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sara Loma-Ramos
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of León, León, Spain
| | | | | | - Valentina Ladera
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
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Wesenberg S, Mueller C, Nestmann F, Holthoff-Detto V. Effects of an animal-assisted intervention on social behaviour, emotions, and behavioural and psychological symptoms in nursing home residents with dementia. Psychogeriatrics 2019; 19:219-227. [PMID: 30393989 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM The positive effects of animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) in people with dementia have been frequently reported in the literature. However, it remains unclear if the positive effects are directly due to the presence of the animal. The aim of this study was to investigate if the inclusion of an animal adds value to psychosocial interventions for people with dementia. METHODS The study followed a within-subject design with two studied conditions (AAI and control intervention) and several measurement points (baseline (i.e. at beginning of the intervention), after 3 months, and after 6 months). Nineteen nursing home residents with dementia participated in the AAI (with a dog) and the control intervention. Both interventions were delivered as weekly group sessions over a period of 6 months. Outcomes examined were social interaction, emotional expression, and behavioural and psychological symptoms. These outcomes were evaluated by using video recordings at baseline and after 3 and 6 months. RESULTS Nineteen patients with moderate to moderately severe dementia who lived in two nursing homes in Germany were included. During the AAI, we detected significantly longer and more frequent periods of positive emotions (pleasure) and social interaction (e.g. touch, body movements) than during the control intervention. CONCLUSION The presence of a dog appears to have beneficial effects on psychosocial intervention for people with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Wesenberg
- Alice Salomon Hochschule - University of Applied Sciences, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Frank Nestmann
- Faculty of Education, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Vjera Holthoff-Detto
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics at the Alexianer Hospital Hedwigshoehe, Berlin, Germany
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Swall A, Craftman Å, Grundberg Å, Wiklund E, Väliaho N, Hagelin CL. Dog handlers' experiences of therapy dogs' impact on life near death for persons with dementia. Int J Palliat Nurs 2019; 25:65-71. [PMID: 30785819 DOI: 10.12968/ijpn.2019.25.2.65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Persons with dementia may have severe physical and psychological symptoms at the end of life. A therapy dog used in their care can provide comfort and relieve their anxiety. The dog handler guides the dog during the interaction with the patient. AIM: To describe the impact of therapy dogs on people with dementia in the final stages of life from the perspective of the dog handler. METHODS: Interviews were conducted and analysed using qualitative content analysis. FINDINGS: The dog provides comfort and relief through its presence and by responding to the physical and emotional expressions of the dying person. CONCLUSIONS: Interactions with dogs were found to have a positive impact on persons with dementia and eased the symptoms associated with end of life according to the dog handlers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Swall
- Senior lecturer, RN, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Health and Social Studies, Dalarna University, Sweden
| | - Åsa Craftman
- Senior lecturer, Department of Nursing Science, Sophiahemmet University, Sweden
| | - Åke Grundberg
- Senior lecturer, Department of Nursing Science, Sophiahemmet University, Sweden
| | | | - Nina Väliaho
- Ms in Nursing, Palliative Care Unit, Borås, Sweden
| | - Carina Lundh Hagelin
- Associate Professor, Senior Lecturer, RN, Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College, Sweden and Karolinska Institutet, Department of Neurobiology, Care Science and Society, Stockholm, Sweden
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Chiberska D. The use of robotic animals in dementia care: challenges and ethical dilemmas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.7748/mhp.2018.e1342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Swall A, Ebbeskog B, Lundh Hagelin C, Fagerberg I. Stepping out of the shadows of Alzheimer's disease: a phenomenological hermeneutic study of older people with Alzheimer's disease caring for a therapy dog. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2018; 12:1347013. [PMID: 28699394 PMCID: PMC5510223 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2017.1347013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) can involve a person being unable to recall and convey information in daily life. There are several ways to provide person-centred care to older people with AD, e.g. by empowering them in a situation. The use of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) with a therapy dog in the care of people with dementia is increasing, with the presence of a therapy dog being described as improving, among other things, the well-being and socialization of the person. The aim of this study was to illuminate meanings of care for people with AD in their encounters with a therapy dog. Method: The study used video-recorded observations of the person with AD and the dog. Data were transcribed and analysed using a phenomenological hermeneutic method. Results: The main theme was “Using one’s own resources and abilities as a human being”, which meant being the person one can be and distancing oneself from the symptoms of AD during the time with the dog. Conclusions: The feelings evoked in the people with AD included empathy and altruism, which allowed for a sense of joy and tenderness, which may induce a sense of self-worth, of being needed, and of being meaningful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Swall
- a Department of Health Sciences, School of Health and Social Studies , Dalarna University , Falun , Sweden
| | - Britt Ebbeskog
- b Karolinska Institutet, Department of Neurobiology , Care Science and Society , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Carina Lundh Hagelin
- b Karolinska Institutet, Department of Neurobiology , Care Science and Society , Stockholm , Sweden.,c Sophiahemmet University , Department of Nursing Science , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Ingegerd Fagerberg
- d Department of Health Care Science , Ersta Sköndal Bräcke University College , Stockholm , Sweden
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14
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Hu M, Zhang P, Leng M, Li C, Chen L. Animal-assisted intervention for individuals with cognitive impairment: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-randomized controlled trials. Psychiatry Res 2018; 260:418-427. [PMID: 29268204 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2017.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this meta-analysis was to systematically examine the efficacy of animal-assisted intervention (AAI) for cognitive impairment patients. PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases were searched up to June 2017 to collect studies related to AAI conducted in patients with cognitive impairment. Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and five quasi-randomized controlled trials (quasi-RCTs) involving 413 participants were included. Compared with control groups, AAI groups exhibited significantly fewer behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), especially depression and agitation. In both the short and long term, AAI had beneficial effects on BPSD in cognitive impairment patients. However, no significant improvements were found in daily living activities, quality of life or cognitive score. The present meta-analysis showed that AAI can be effective in reducing BPSD in patients with cognitive impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyue Hu
- College of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- College of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Minmin Leng
- College of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chen Li
- College of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Li Chen
- College of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, China; Department of Pharmacology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Wood W, Fields B, Rose M, McLure M. Animal-Assisted Therapies and Dementia: A Systematic Mapping Review Using the Lived Environment Life Quality (LELQ) Model. Am J Occup Ther 2017; 71:7105190030p1-7105190030p10. [PMID: 28809656 DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2017.027219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The authors mapped the literature on animal-assisted therapies (AATs) and institutionalized adults with dementia onto the Lived Environment Life Quality (LELQ) Model as a guide for future services and research. METHOD Refereed literature addressing AATs and institutionalized people with dementia was comprehensively gathered, described, categorized, and synthesized in this systematic mapping review. RESULTS From 1,342 screened records, the authors included 10 research articles that incorporated dogs in therapy for institutionalized adults with dementia. These canine-assisted therapies offered occupational opportunities and environmental supports conducive to experiences of relative well-being, occupational engagement, and optimal functioning. CONCLUSION The findings offer proof of the concept that canine-assisted therapies are feasible and can elicit positive quality-of-life experiences in institutionalized people with dementia. Researchers and practitioners need to elucidate the theoretical foundations of AATs. The LELQ Model may serve as a guide for client-centered, occupation-focused, and ecologically valid approaches to animal-assisted occupational therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy Wood
- Wendy Wood, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Sciences, and Director of Research, Temple Grandin Research Center, College of Agricultural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins;
| | - Beth Fields
- Beth Fields, MS, OTR/L, is PhD Candidate and Research Assistant, Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Health and Human Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins
| | - Michelle Rose
- Michelle Rose, MS, OTR/L, is Occupational Therapy Fellow, JFK Partners, University of Colorado, Denver
| | - Merinda McLure
- Merinda McLure, MLIS, AHIP, is Health & Human Sciences Librarian and Associate Professor, University Libraries, University of Colorado, Boulder. At the time of the study, she was Associate Professor, Open Educational Resources Librarian, and Health and Human Sciences Librarian, Morgan Library, Colorado State University, Fort Collins
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Sollami A, Gianferrari E, Alfieri M, Artioli G, Taffurelli C. Pet therapy: an effective strategy to care for the elderly? An experimental study in a nursing home. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2017; 88:25-31. [PMID: 28327492 PMCID: PMC10548069 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v88i1-s.6281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM There has recently been a growing interest towards patients' affective and emotional needs, especially in relational therapies, which are considered vital as to increase the understanding of those needs and patients' well-being. In particular, we paid attention to those patients who are forced to spend the last phase of their existence in residential facilities, namely elderly people in nursing homes, who often feel marginalized, useless, depressed, unstimulated or unable to communicate. The aim of this study is to verify the effectiveness of pet therapy in improving well-being in the elderly living in a nursing home. METHODS This is a longitudinal study with before and after intervention variables measurement in two groups of patients of a nursing home for elderly people. One group followed an AAI intervention (experimental group) the other one did not (control group). As to perform an assessment of well-being we measured the following dimensions in patients: anxiety (HAM-A), depression (GDS), apathy (AES), loneliness (UCLA), and quality of life (QUALID). Both groups filled the questionnaires as to measure the target variables (time 0). Once finished the scheduled meetings (time 1), all the participants, including the control group, filled the same questionnaires. RESULTS In accordance with scientific evidence the results confirmed a significant reduction of the measured variables. Especially for the quality of life, which showed a greater reduction than the other. CONCLUSIONS The implementation and success of the Pet Therapy could have a great emotional and social impact, bringing relief to patients and their family members, but also to health professionals.
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Swall A, Ebbeskog B, Lundh Hagelin C, Fagerberg I. ‘Bringing respite in the burden of illness’ - dog handlers’ experience of visiting older persons with dementia together with a therapy dog. J Clin Nurs 2016; 25:2223-31. [DOI: 10.1111/jocn.13261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Swall
- Department of Health Sciences; School of Health and Social Studies; Dalarna University; Falun Sweden
| | - Britt Ebbeskog
- Department of Neurobiology; Caring Science and Social Science; Karolinska Institutet; Huddinge Sweden
| | - Carina Lundh Hagelin
- Sophiahemmet University; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Learning; Informatics; Management and Ethics; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Ingegerd Fagerberg
- Ersta Sköndal University College; Department of Health Care Sciences; Stockholm Sweden
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Swall A, Ebbeskog B, Lundh Hagelin C, Fagerberg I. Can therapy dogs evoke awareness of one's past and present life in persons with Alzheimer′s disease? Int J Older People Nurs 2014; 10:84-93. [DOI: 10.1111/opn.12053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Swall
- Department of Neurobiology, Caring Science and Social Science; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Sophiahemmet University; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Britt Ebbeskog
- Department of Neurobiology, Caring Science and Social Science; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Carina Lundh Hagelin
- Sophiahemmet University; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics; Cancer and Palliative care; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Ingegerd Fagerberg
- Department of Neurobiology, Caring Science and Social Science; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
- Department of Health Care Science; Ersta Sköndal University College; Stockholm Sweden
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Abstract
There is a need to develop nonpharmacological treatments and methods which can serve as alternatives or complements to medications in dementia care. Previous research indicates that animal-assisted intervention (AAI) can be beneficial. The purpose of the present pilot project was to evaluate effects of AAI on quality of life (QoL) in people with dementia in four Swedish nursing homes. A pretest/posttest research design was used. Twenty people (12 women, 8 men; aged 58 to 88) were included. Nine people completed the intervention which comprised 10 training sessions with a certified therapy dog team. QoL improved in the expected direction after the intervention ( p = .035). Even though the effects of AAI may not be discernible over longer periods of time, there are still immediate effects which can promote better QoL for people living with dementia diseases.
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