bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a school-based cognitive–behavioral depression prevention program
Authors: Garmy Pernilla , Clausson Eva K. , Berg Agneta , Steen Carlsson Katarina , Jakobsson Ulf
Published: December 2017

Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and cost-utility of a school-based cognitive–behavioral (CB) depression prevention program. Methods: A quasi-experimental trial with an intervention group and a control group, with follow-up measurements obtained at three and 12 months after baseline, was conducted. The setting was six Swedish municipalities. The participants were students in grade 8 (median age: 14). A total of 462 students (79% girls) were allocated to the school-based CB prevention program, and 486 students (46% girls) were allocated to the control group. The school-based CB prevention program, Depression in Swedish Adolescents (DISA), was presented by school health service staff and teachers once per week for 10 weeks. Results: The main outcome measures were self-reported depressive symptoms and self-rated health; the secondary outcome measures were adherence and cost-utility. The intervention group decreased their self-reported depressive symptoms (as measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale) and improved their self-rated health (as measured by the visual analog scale) at the 12-month follow-up more than the control group ( p < .05). Conclusions: Given the challenges of conducting a study in a complex, everyday school setting with baseline differences between the intervention and control group, it is difficult to make accurate interpretations of the effectiveness of the intervention. However, with these limitations in mind, the results indicate that the DISA program is a feasible school-based prevention program.
Re-evaluating food systems and food security: A global perspective
Authors: Lawrence Geoffrey
Published: December 2017

Three major systems of producing and distributing food coexist in today’s world – traditional, modernising and industrialised. While the movement from traditional to modernising to industrialised is neither inevitable nor uncontested, there are various social, economic and political forces that are acting to speed up such a transition. Neoliberal globalisation and financialisation are two of the macro-processes that are implicated in profound changes in food systems. From the perspective of critical agri-food scholarship, this article will outline the characteristics of the three food systems, before examining the role played by neoliberal globalisation and financialisation in reshaping their trajectories. The issue of food security will then be addressed, along with current opposition to the current global food trajectory.
Sociology’s unspoken weakness: Bringing epistemology back in
Authors: Stones Rob
Published: December 2017

Following the sustained criticism of positivism and empiricism in the social sciences through the 1960s and 1970s, social theory turned its attention resolutely towards ontology. This ‘ontological turn’ has provided sociology with an enviably rich and diverse palette of understandings emerging from a variety of theoretical traditions. This development has been accompanied, however, by a failure to construct a parallel epistemology with which to translate the variety, fullness and nuance of ontological concepts into strong and defensible empirical accounts. The article signals the complex nature of the consequent challenge and presents the components of a new epistemological framework designed to enable the social sciences to respond to it. Grounded theory is taken as an example of how an influential prior approach attuned to the role of concepts in making sense of empirical data could be constructively integrated into the new epistemology while being greatly strengthened by it. The article concludes with a critical discussion of John Law’s After Method. Closely associated with Actor Network Theory (ANT), Law offers a ‘hard case’ against which to pitch my argument. This is because he holds that the subjective, contingent and ‘assembled’ character of knowledge renders both undesirable and impossible the project of epistemological rigour I present as both possible and essential.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Caribbean: Unrealizable promises?
Authors: Brissett Nigel O. M.
Published: December 2017

This article analyses the relevance of the SDGs to the needs of the Small Islands Developing States of the Caribbean Community. The article situates the SDGs within a critical interrogation of the social change logic of the universalizing global economic system. Thus, I argue that the SDGs, while recognizing some key economic and environmental concerns of the Caribbean Community, are hamstrung by their commitment to the unequal power structure of the neoliberal capitalist development model. Finally, this article calls upon regional and global social movements, and increased economic regionalism as ways of empowering Caribbean social change.
Being here with you: An examination of the relational field in dementia care
Authors: Ramsay-Jones Esther
Published: December 2017

Underpinning the provision and receipt of care is the involvement of two parties: carer and cared-for. This paper seeks to understand how the National Dementia Strategy constructs the relational field in professional dementia care, and how this writes itself (or not) into the actual realities of daily care practice in a dementia care home. The paper will explore the connections between (i) the ways the needs of those who receive care are constituted in dementia care discourse; (ii) the ideological frames, around policies, said to respond to such needs; and (iii) the incidences of tension between policy and the realities of the embodied and psychic experiences of those involved in dementia care.
The Senior Companion Program Plus: A culturally tailored psychoeducational training program (innovative practice)
Authors: Fields Noelle L , Xu Ling , Richardson Virginia E , Parekh Rupal , Ivey Dorothea , Feinhals Gretchen , Calhoun Melanie
Published: December 2017

A purposive sample of African American Senior Companions ( N = 23) participated in a 5-day, 20-hour psychoeducational training designed to address the unique cultural needs of African American dementia caregivers. Previous studies have not utilized lay caregiver volunteers such as Senior Companions in dementia research in the United States. Pre- and post-tests were administered to determine whether African American Senior Companions increased their knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease after participating in the Senior Companion Program Plus. Results from both the quantitative and qualitative data suggest that participants improved their understanding of Alzheimer’s disease. Findings from the Senior Companion Program Plus pilot warrant further study for its potential as cost effective, culturally tailored training for Senior Companions who serve persons with dementia and their family caregivers.
‘This is Killing me Inside’: The Impact of Having a Parent with Young-Onset Dementia
Authors: Aslett Helen J , Huws Jaci C , Woods Robert T , Kelly-Rhind Joanne
Published: December 2017

This study explored the experience of young adults having a parent with young-onset dementia. In-depth interviews were undertaken with five participants aged between 23 and 36 years of age and these were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Participants were found to experience a number of stresses in relation to their parent’s illness, many of which were linked to loss and guilt. Five main themes were identified related to relationship changes, shifts in roles and responsibilities, support for the non-affected parent, support for self and the impact of living with their own potential risk of dementia. These findings are discussed in relation to the existing literature and suggest that individuals with a parent with young-onset dementia have needs which service providers should consider in the wider context of young-onset dementia care.
Assistive Technologies to Address Capabilities of People with Dementia: From Research to Practice
Authors: Kenigsberg Paul-Ariel , Aquino Jean-Pierre , Bérard Alain , Brémond François , Charras Kevin , Dening Tom , Droës Rose-Marie , Gzil Fabrice , Hicks Ben , Innes Anthea , Nguyen Sao-Mai , Nygård Louise , Pino Maribel , Sacco Guillaume , Salmon Eric , van der Roest Henriëtte , Villet Hervé , Villez Marion , Robert Philippe , Manera Valeria
Published: December 2017

Assistive technologies became pervasive and virtually present in all our life domains. They can be either an enabler or an obstacle leading to social exclusion. The Fondation Médéric Alzheimer gathered international experts of dementia care, with backgrounds in biomedical, human and social sciences, to analyze how assistive technologies can address the capabilities of people with dementia, on the basis of their needs. Discussion covered the unmet needs of people with dementia, the domains of daily life activities where assistive technologies can provide help to people with dementia, the enabling and empowering impact of technology to improve their safety and wellbeing, barriers and limits of use, technology assessment, ethical and legal issues. The capability approach (possible freedom) appears particularly relevant in person-centered dementia care and technology development. The focus is not on the solution, rather on what the person can do with it: seeing dementia as disability, with technology as an enabler to promote capabilities of the person, provides a useful framework for both research and practice. This article summarizes how these concepts took momentum in professional practice and public policies in the past 15 years (2000–2015), discusses current issues in the design, development and economic model of assistive technologies for people with dementia, and covers how these technologies are being used and assessed.
Behavioural Changes in Dementia and their Impact on Professional Caregivers: A Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: Appleton Katie , Pereira Antonina
Published: December 2017

Aim

The present study aimed to explore the impact that changes in behavioural symptoms of people living with dementia have on professional caregiver and resident relationships.

Method

A total of 21 interviews were carried out with professional caregivers of people living with dementia. A grounded theory approach was used to investigate everyday experiences of provision of professional care in dementia settings, focussing specifically on the effect of behavioural change on such relationships.

Results

A core category emerged from this analysis: ‘Developing behaviour in dementia impacts relationships on a personal and professional level’.

Discussion

Professionals have recognized as part of their everyday practice an eventual deterioration in relationships between themselves as professional caregivers and the residents, but also between the residents and their family members and among residents themselves. Importantly, understanding patients’ behaviour and behavioural change was identified as a crucial factor to achieve and sustain good relationships between professionals and residents suffering with dementia.
Factors Associated with the Quality of Life of People with Dementia and with Quality of Life-Improving Interventions: Scoping Review
Authors: Holopainen Arja , Siltanen Hannele , Pohjanvuori Anita , Mäkisalo-Ropponen Merja , Okkonen Eila
Published: December 2017

Objectives

To synthesise current research exploring the factors and interventions associated with the quality of life of people with dementia.

Background

Dementia is a progressive condition affecting an estimated 40 million people worldwide. The illness has a significant impact on the lives of the persons affected and their loved ones, and may thus impair the quality of life of both. As it progresses, dementia weakens the patients’ ability to express their own views about their quality of life and the factors associated with it.

Design

Scoping review.

Data sources

Electronic database search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Joanna Briggs Institute Library, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE), EMBASE, Medic published up to March 2016; and incremental hand search. Review method: Systematic or other kinds of reviews and single studies were included for the review if they met the inclusion criteria. Results: A total of 20 reviews and 7 primary studies were retained for synthesis. Key findings were abstracted and a themes matrix was generated to identify patterns of meaning. The factors associated with the quality of life of people with dementia were sociodemographic factors, factors related to dementia and social and caring environment. Interventions supporting quality of life focused on the activation of people with dementia. Conclusions: This scoping review identified a large body of knowledge exploring the factors and interventions associated with the quality of life of people with dementia. The interventions were heterogeneous and the sample sizes small, which is why more research is needed.
Attitudes of Nurses and the General Public Towards Euthanasia on Individuals with Dementia and Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Terkamo-Moisio Anja , Pietilä Anna-Maija , Lehto Juho T , Ryynänen Olli-Pekka
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Despite the increasing prevalence of dementia, little is known about individuals’ attitudes towards euthanasia on patients with dementia or cognitive impairment.

Methods

Nurses (n = 1003) and representatives of the general public (n = 2796), recruited via social media and the Finnish Nurses Association, completed an electronic questionnaire in 2014.

Results

Euthanasia due to severe dementia was approved by 54.6% of nurses and 64.4% of the general public. Depending on the age of the patient, between 50.0% and 54.7% of nurses and between 58.3% and 60.9% of the general public supported euthanasia on patients with severe cognitive impairment.

Discussion

The attitudes towards euthanasia due to dementia or cognitive impairment are slightly more accepting among the general public than among nurses. Apart from religiosity, none of the background factors were found to be reliable predictors of individuals’ attitudes. Additional research is needed to describe the underlying reasons for the attitudes.
Psychomotor, Functional, and Cognitive Profiles in Older People with and without Dementia:What Connections?
Authors: Morais Ana , Santos Sofia , Lebre Paula
Published: December 2017

Background

In typical aging, it is possible to observe a decline in psychomotor domains, such as balance or global and fine motor skills as well as a cognitive and functional decline. Although, it is not clear which psychomotor domains are mostly affected in elderly with dementia and the association with the cognitive and functional level.

Objective

To identify the correlation between psychomotor, cognitive, and functional skills, and seeking whether there are differences among persons with and without dementia.

Design and Methods

A total of 120 persons with dementia (ages between 61 and 99 years old; mean age 80.6 ± 7.4) and 377 persons without dementia (ages between 60 and 99 years old; mean age 77.2 ± 8.7) were recruited from nursing homes, day-care centers, and home care. Consenting participants were assessed in psychomotor, cognitive, and functional domains using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) to assess cognitive impairment, the Barthel Index (BI), and Lawton Index (LI) to identify basic and instrumental activities of daily living and a Portuguese Version of Éxamen Geronto-Psychomoteur (P-EGP) to evaluate psychomotor skills.

Results

People with dementia showed a higher percentage of cognitive deficit and higher level of dependency in basic and instrumental activities of daily living. Further, findings also showed significant differences in psychomotor domains and total of P-EGP, with exception of Joint Mobilizations of Upper and Lower Limbs. There were moderate to strong correlations between the totals of the scales, and between the totals and domains.

Conclusions

The population with dementia has higher percentage of cognitive deficit, higher dependency on the performance of basic and instrumental activities of daily living and poorer psychomotor performance, except in joint mobilizations. It was also possible to find strong correlations between the total of P-EGP and the total of cognitive and functional scales. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Trust at stake: Is the “dual mission” of the U.S. Alzheimer’s Association out of balance?
Authors: Caspi Eilon
Published: December 2017

The official vision of the U.S. Alzheimer’s Association is “A world without Alzheimer’s disease.” The “dual mission” of the organization is “to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research and to enhance care and support for individuals, their families and caregivers.” Using numerous reports from leading researchers and practitioners, a case is made by which the “dual mission” is grossly unbalanced with predominant focus on biomedical research aimed at curing the disease compared to research and practices focused on the psycho-social impacts of and adaptations to living with it. These experts discuss the likelihood of curing the disease, the complexity of realizing this goal, and the urgent need to “bring back the social and psychological aspects” of living with dementia to center stage. The moral responsibility to balancing the “dual mission” in accordance with the original motivation of the grassroots organizations who formed the association in 1980 is discussed.
What is taught about dementia in secondary schools? A survey of schools in Sussex, England (Innovative Practice)
Authors: Farina Nicolas
Published: December 2017

Local dementia education initiatives exist in schools but it is unclear what the wider uptake of such programmes are. A self-created survey was sent to staff in a number of secondary schools (teaching ages 11–16) across Sussex, England. Sixty schools responded to the survey (response rate = 58%). While the majority of schools expressed an interest in including some form of dementia education within their school in the future, only nine schools (15%) currently had dementia education embedded within their curriculum. Despite government calls to reduce stigma and improve attitudes towards dementia, it seems very little is being taught in secondary schools on the topic.
“Did I make the right decision?”: The difficult and unpredictable journey of being a surrogate decision maker for a person living with dementia
Authors: Fetherstonhaugh Deirdre , McAuliffe Linda , Shanley Christopher , Bauer Michael , Beattie Elizabeth
Published: December 2017

Many people living with dementia eventually lose the capacity to make their own decisions and will rely on another person – a surrogate decision maker – to make decisions on their behalf. It is important – especially with the increasing prevalence of dementia – that the role of surrogate decision maker is understood and supported. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 34 surrogate decision makers of persons living with dementia in Australia. Face-to-face and telephone interviews were conducted over six months in 2014. Five themes were identified: becoming the only – or main – surrogate decision maker; growing into the role of surrogate decision maker; dealing with the stress of making decisions; having to challenge healthcare professionals; and getting support – or not – from family members. An overarching construct tying the themes together is the description of the participants’ experience as being on a difficult and unpredictable journey. Healthcare professionals can provide support by acting as empathic guides on this journey.
‘Well I’m still the Diva!’ Enabling people with dementia to express their identity through graffiti arts: Innovative practice
Authors: Hicks Ben , Carroll Denise , Shanker Shanti , El-Zeind Angela
Published: December 2017

This article reports on a pilot study that investigated the use of graffiti arts as a medium for promoting self-expression in people with dementia. Two people with dementia attended a series of workshops with a graffiti artist where they explored their feelings of changing identity following their dementia diagnoses. As part of the workshops, they were encouraged to develop a personal ‘tag’ or signature to portray their sense of identity and a piece of street art to express ‘their message’. These completed artworks were displayed in a public space in Bournemouth, UK.
Mental wellbeing in people with dementia following Cognitive Stimulation Therapy: Innovative practice
Authors: Allward Catherine , Dunn Rosie , Forshaw Gemma , Rewston Chris , Wass Nicola
Published: December 2017

The benefits of Cognitive Stimulation Therapy in supporting cognitive functioning for people with dementia are well recognised. It has been proposed that Cognitive Stimulation Therapy may offer additional benefits in terms of a person’s sense of general wellbeing. A service evaluation of 60 participants attending Cognitive Stimulation Therapy groups was conducted using the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale. Although this evaluation did not demonstrate a significant difference between pre- and post-treatment scores (t = −1.75, df = −59, p = −0.085), there was a trend in participants’ reported optimism about the future and confidence. Recommendations about future research in relation to mental wellbeing in dementia care are discussed.
Care workers’ voices in designing assistive technologies for preventing malnutrition in older people with dementia: Innovative Practice
Authors: Jayatilaka Asangi , Ranasinghe Damith C , Falkner Katrina , Visvanathan Renuka , Wilson Anne
Published: December 2017

Technology may be considered a way to promote nutritional health in people with dementia living in their home. For technologies to be effective and accepted by users, understanding technological needs prior to technology development is crucial; however, this necessitates greater research investment. Consequently, our focus is to derive needs for nutritional health promoting technologies for older people with dementia by understanding perceptions of care workers recruited by the aged care industry. In this paper, we provide a brief description of the theoretical framework that underpins the research study and the research methods selected. Significant learning outcomes related to the research methods include managing hierarchical relationships among participants, engagement with the care workers working in the community and using external material to spark discussion.
Factors associated with living situation among Alzheimer’s caregivers in the south of Spain that affect the election of external support services
Authors: Ruiz-Adame Reina Manuel , Jiménez Aguilera Juan de Dios
Published: December 2017

Alzheimer’s is a syndrome mainly suffered by women and the care they need is also mainly provided by other women. The aim of this paper is to describe the profile of users of professional support services and to find out if some socio-demographic factors are linked with those elections. The study was conducted from January to June 2012 thanks to the cooperation of over 41 Alzheimer’s Associations in Andalusia, in the south of Spain. A person trained by the main researcher (a social worker or a psychologist) completed the questionnaire during an interview with the caregiver. Seven hundred and seventy-eight questionnaires were analysed. Contrary to previous findings, the use of external services is not infrequent. The most commonly used services are Day Care Centres (22.4%) and Cognitive Workshops (19.2%), but Home Assistance Services are the most frequently used either alone or in combination with the other two (27.5%). A higher level of education increases the probability of choosing a nursing home. The two main factors for looking for external support are non-cohabitation and working outside the home. Among caregivers under 40 years old this is the main profile. Using no services or in low and medium intensity in service hours leads to informal caregivers being the main caregivers. The potential labour market for professional caring is reduced by a crowding-out effect. Employment reduces the chance of being a caregiver.
Exposure to nature gardens has time-dependent associations with mood improvements for people with mid- and late-stage dementia: Innovative practice
Authors: White Piran CL , Wyatt Jonathan , Chalfont Garuth , Bland J Martin , Neale Christopher , Trepel Dominic , Graham Hilary
Published: December 2017

Exposure to green space and nature has a potential role to play in the care of people with dementia, with possible benefits including improved mood and slower disease progression. In this observational study at a dementia care facility in the UK, we used carer-assessed measures to evaluate change in mood of residents with mid- to late-stage dementia following exposure to a nature garden. We found that exposure to nature was associated with a beneficial change in patient mood. There was a non-linear relationship between time spent outdoors and mood outcome. Improvements in patient mood were associated with relatively short duration exposures to nature, and no additional measureable increases in mood were found with exposures beyond 80–90 minutes duration. Whilst further investigation is required before causality can be determined, these results raise important questions for policy about the integration of outdoor space into the design of dementia care facilities and programmes.
The influence of subliminal crosstalk in dementia narratives
Authors: Chatwin John , Capstick Andrea
Published: December 2017

Ethnographic audio-visual research data recorded in a busy dementia care environment were initially considered to be ‘contaminated’ by unwanted background noise. This included a variety of elements: ambient sound, mechanical noise, non-narrative vocalisation and narrative fragments from parallel conversation. Using the methodological lens of conversation analysis, we present an exploration of the striking temporal and sequential resonances between the narrative of one man with dementia and a group of care staff holding a separate conversation some distance away. We suggest that in this and similar settings, where random and intrusive background sounds and conversation form a ubiquitous backdrop, the presence of such ‘noise’ can have a detectable influence on the content and direction of situated narratives. We argue that rather than attempting to filter out these apparently intrusive sounds from micro-interactional data, interference elements can usefully be incorporated into the analysis of interactions.
Effectiveness of group reminiscence therapy for people living with dementia in a day care centers in Taiwan
Authors: (Rita) Chang HuiChen , Chien Hui-Wen
Published: December 2017

Objective

To explore as a pilot study the effects of group reminiscence therapy upon depression of people living with dementia within dementia-specific day care centers.

Method

A unique pre-test-post-test, quasi-experimental design counterbalanced with a qualitative grounded theory video analysis of facial expression and behavior was used to measure the effects of group reminiscence therapy. The study recruited 21 participants in total from two dementia-specific day care centers.

Results

The findings highlighted improvements in depression, communication, and positive mood after group reminiscence intervention. The results also showed that participants scored higher on average during the Chinese New Year and marriage reminiscence activities compared to the other activities, revealing the subject matters extraordinarily significance.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence supporting the proposition that undertaking a cultural focus reminiscence therapy may produce significant psychosocial improvements for a person with dementia.
Adopt a Care Home: An intergenerational initiative bringing children into care homes
Authors: Di Bona Laura , Kennedy Sheila , Mountain Gail
Published: December 2017

Dementia friendly communities, in which people living with dementia actively participate and those around them are educated about dementia, may improve the wellbeing of those living with dementia and reduce the associated stigma. The Adopt a Care Home scheme aims to contribute towards this by teaching schoolchildren about dementia and linking them with people living with dementia in a local care home. Forty-one children, 10 people living with dementia and 8 school/care home staff participated in a mixed methods (questionnaires, observations, interviews and focus groups) evaluation to assess the scheme’s feasibility and impact. Data were analysed statistically and thematically. The scheme was successfully implemented, increased children’s dementia awareness and appeared enjoyable for most participants. Findings, therefore, demonstrate the scheme’s potential to contribute towards dementia friendly communities by increasing children’s knowledge and understanding of dementia and engaging people living with dementia in an enjoyable activity, increasing their social inclusion.
Psychosocial benefits of exercise for older adults with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment: Innovative practice
Authors: Tortosa-Martínez Juan , Beltrán-Carrillo Vicente J , Caus Nuria , Iglesias-Martínez Marcos J , Lozano-Cabezas Inés , Jimenez-Hernández Sandra , Cortell-Tormo JM
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study was to explore the perceived psychosocial benefits of a three-month exercise program for 10 older adults with amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment, a condition in which memory loss is the main symptom. Qualitative data were collected by observation (research diary) and 20 semi-structured interviews with the participants (10) and their caregivers (10). The narratives showed remarkable psychosocial benefits, such as improved mood, motivation, autonomy, perceived competence, self-esteem, and social relationships. The results of this study should provide new insights into the importance of exercise for this population, and may help to design appropriate programs for them.
Older New Zealanders in caregiving roles: Psychological functioning of caregivers of people living with dementia
Authors: Fekete Márta , Szabo Agnes , Stephens Christine , Alpass Fiona
Published: December 2017

Research suggests that caregiving can have both positive and negative effects on psychological functioning. It is, however, less understood how these positive and negative effects interact within individuals. The present study aimed to identify different patterns of psychological functioning and their correlates among caregivers of dementia patients. The sample included 336 older caregivers. Latent profile analysis revealed three distinct profiles. The optimally functioning profile was characterized by high levels of positive outcomes and low levels of depression. Those with a suboptimally functioning profile reported low levels of positive outcomes and increased depression symptoms. The poorly functioning profile displayed extremely high levels of depression symptoms and extremely low levels of positive outcomes. Differentiation among groups was driven by differences in social support and to a lesser extent by socio-demographic factors and caregiving experience. Results suggest that caregiving is not necessarily a burdensome role and highlight the role of social relationships.
Active residents in care homes: A holistic approach to promoting and encouraging meaningful activity for residents living in care homes: Innovative Practice
Authors: Smith Raymond , Wood Julia , Jones Fiona , Anderson Liezl , Hurley Michael
Published: December 2017

The active residents in care homes intervention aim to promote meaningful activity among care home residents. Residents, family members and staff from three residential care homes in South London are participating. It is a whole systems approach which involves formal and ‘on the floor’ training to empower care home staff to facilitate activity. Training is delivered by two occupational therapists, a physiotherapist and a rehabilitation assistant. This paper describes the active residents in care homes intervention, the evaluation methods and discusses some preliminary findings.
The use of free non-dementia-specific Apps on iPad to conduct group communication exercises for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (Innovative Practice)
Authors: Kong Anthony Pak-Hin
Published: December 2017

This study examined the use of various iPad Apps to conduct group cognitive exercises for clients with mild or early stage dementia of Alzheimer’s type. A list of free non-dementia-specific Apps suitable for group sessions was compiled. The procedures in choosing these Apps and determining the most successful ones for group exercises were discussed. Based on participants’ and professionals’ responses to the use of these Apps, the results would render practitioners useful guidelines in replicating and running technology-based training for individuals with dementia.
Personhood, dementia policy and the Irish National Dementia Strategy
Authors: Hennelly Niamh , O’Shea Eamon
Published: December 2017

Personhood and its realisation in person-centred care is part of the narrative, if not always the reality, of care for people with dementia. This paper examines how personhood is conceptualised and actualised in Ireland through a content analysis of organisational and individual submissions from stakeholders in the development of the Irish National Dementia Strategy, followed by an examination of the Strategy itself. The organisational submissions are further categorised into dementia care models. A structural analysis of the Strategy examines its principles, actions and outcomes in relation to personhood. Of the 72 organisational and individual submissions received in the formulation of the Strategy, 61% contained references to personhood and its synonyms. Of the 35 organisational submissions, 40% fit a biomedical model, 31% a social model and 29% a biopsychosocial model. The Strategy contains one direct reference to personhood and 33 to personhood synonyms. Half of these references were contained within its key principles and objectives; none were associated with priority actions or outcomes. While stakeholders value personhood and the Strategy identifies personhood as an overarching principle, clearer direction on how personhood and person-centred care can be supported in practice and through regulation is necessary in Ireland. The challenge, therefore, is to provide the information, knowledge, incentives and resources for personhood to take hold in dementia care in Ireland.
Music for the ageing brain: Cognitive, emotional, social, and neural benefits of musical leisure activities in stroke and dementia
Authors: Särkämö Teppo
Published: December 2017

Music engages an extensive network of auditory, cognitive, motor, and emotional processing regions in the brain. Coupled with the fact that the emotional and cognitive impact of music is often well preserved in ageing and dementia, music is a powerful tool in the care and rehabilitation of many ageing-related neurological diseases. In addition to formal music therapy, there has been a growing interest in self- or caregiver-implemented musical leisure activities or hobbies as a widely applicable means to support psychological wellbeing in ageing and in neurological rehabilitation. This article reviews the currently existing evidence on the cognitive, emotional, and neural benefits of musical leisure activities in normal ageing as well as in the rehabilitation and care of two of the most common and ageing-related neurological diseases: stroke and dementia.
The challenge pathway: A mixed methods evaluation of an innovative care model for the palliative and end-of-life care of people with dementia (Innovative practice)
Authors: Harrop Emily , Nelson Annmarie , Rees Helen , Harris Dylan , Noble Simon
Published: December 2017

An innovative service for the palliative and end-of-life care of people with dementia was introduced at a UK hospice. This evaluation involved analysis of audit data, semi-structured interviews with project staff (n=3) and surveys of family carers (n=15) and professionals (n=20). The service has increased access to palliative, end-of-life care and other services. Improvements were reported in the knowledge, confidence and care skills of family carers and professionals. Carers felt better supported and it was perceived that the service enabled more patients to be cared for at home or in their usual place of care.
Assessment of capabilities in persons with advanced stage of dementia: Validation of The Montessori Assessment System (MAS)
Authors: Erkes Jérôme , Camp Cameron J , Raffard Stéphane , Gély-Nargeot and Marie-Christine , Bayard Sophie
Published: December 2017

This study evaluated the validity and reliability of the Montessori Assessment System. The Montessori Assessment System assesses preserved abilities in persons with moderate to severe dementia. In this respect, this instrument provides crucial information for the development of effective person-centered care plans. A total of 196 persons with a diagnosis of dementia in the moderate to severe stages of dementia were recruited in 10 long-term care facilities in France. All participants completed the Montessori Assessment System, the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale and/or the Mini Mental State Examination and the Severe Impairment Battery-short form. The internal consistency and temporal stability of the Montessori Assessment System were high. Additionally, good construct and divergent validity were demonstrated. Factor analysis showed a one-factor structure. The Montessori Assessment System demonstrated satisfactory psychometric properties while being a useful instrument to assess capabilities in persons with advanced stages of dementia and hence to develop person-centered plans of care.
Participatory arts programs in residential dementia care: Playing with language differences
Authors: Swinnen Aagje , de Medeiros Kate
Published: December 2017

This article examines connections between language, identity, and cultural difference in the context of participatory arts in residential dementia care. Specifically, it looks at how language differences become instruments for the language play that characterizes the participatory arts programs, TimeSlips and the Alzheimer’s Poetry Project. These are two approaches that are predominantly spoken-word driven. Although people living with dementia experience cognitive decline that affects language, they are linguistic agents capable of participating in ongoing negotiation processes of connection, belonging, and in- and exclusion through language use. The analysis of two ethnographic vignettes, based on extensive fieldwork in the closed wards of two Dutch nursing homes, illustrates how TimeSlips and the Alzheimer’s Poetry Project support them in this agency. The theoretical framework of the analysis consists of literature on the linguistic agency of people living with dementia, the notions of the homo ludens (or man the player) and ludic language, as well as linguistic strategies of belonging in relation to place.
Effectiveness of treatment in wards for patients with dementia and issues associated with this treatment: A prospective analysis
Authors: Taniguchi Shogo , Matsuoka Teruyuki , Hikawa Takeshi , Machihara Atsushi , Shibata Keisuke , Miki Hideki , Shimizu Hiroshi , Narumoto Jin
Published: December 2017

In order to optimize the treatment in wards for patients with dementia, we investigated predictors of the length of stay in the ward for patients with dementia. A prospective analysis of 72 patients with dementia was conducted in two wards for patients with dementia. Severity of dementia was assessed by the Clinical Dementia Rating, basic activities of daily living were evaluated using the Physical Self-Maintenance Scale, and severity of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia and caregiver distress were determined with the Nursing Home version of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Stepwise regression analysis was used to identify predictors of the length of stay. Fewer patients were discharged to home compared to those discharged to institutions or transferred to a different hospital or ward. The mean length of stay was 92.0 days. Clinical Dementia Rating and total distress scale score on the Nursing Home version of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory were significant independent predictors of the length of stay. The total Nursing Home version of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory score and total distress scale score on the Nursing Home version of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory were significantly improved through treatment. Our results suggest that treatment in the wards for patients with dementia is effective for improvement of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. However, some patients could not be discharged to their home despite improvement of behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, and this may be related to caregiver burden at admission.
Findings from a strength-based moderate-intensity exercise interventions for individuals with dementia (innovative practice)
Authors: Dawson Nicole , Gerhart Hayden , Judge Katherine S
Published: December 2017

Limited evidence exists regarding exercise interventions with individuals with dementia, which is often due to heterogeneity of methodology and outcomes being assessed. This led to the development and evaluation of a moderate-intensity home-based functional exercise program guided by theories from exercise science and the Strength-Based Approach. Data indicated excellent treatment adherence (99.04%) along with high levels of acceptability and feasibility in this sample (age 76.63 years (9.84); Mini Mental State Exam 18.87 (6.40)). This article informs future practice by highlighting the merits of a Strength-Based Approach in research examining exercise and physical rehabilitation to improve adherence and compliance with individuals with dementia.
Dementia friendly initiatives: A state of the science review
Authors: Hebert Catherine A , Scales Kezia
Published: December 2017

Background

Dementia friendly initiatives share similarities with the age-friendly movement in a focus on active engagement and creating a good quality of life for older adults. Dementia friendly initiatives offer a welcoming optimistic narrative in dementia studies by embracing dignity, empowerment, and autonomy to enable well-being throughout the dementia trajectory.

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to explore the current science of dementia friendly initiatives, identify gaps, and inform future research.

Method

Quantitative, qualitative, and conceptual/theoretical peer-reviewed dementia friendly research literature were evaluated for their current evidence base and theoretical underpinnings.

Results

The dementia friendly initiatives research base is primarily qualitative and descriptive focused on environmental design, dementia awareness and education, and the development of dementia friendly communities. Person-centered care principles appear in dementia friendly initiatives centered in care settings. Strong interdisciplinary collaboration is present. Research is needed to determine the effect of dementia friendly initiatives on stakeholder-driven and community-based outcomes. Due to the contextual nature of dementia, the perspective of persons with dementia should be included as dementia friendly initiatives are implemented. Theory-based studies are needed to confirm dementia friendly initiative components and support rigorous evaluation. Dementia friendly initiatives broaden the lens from which dementia is viewed.
Experiences of shame for people with dementia: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Aldridge Hannah , Fisher Paul , Laidlaw Ken
Published: December 2017

Studies highlight that shame can be problematic for people with early-stage dementia. However, no published research has specifically explored experiences of shame in dementia from the perspective of the individual. This study uses Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to gain an understanding of how shame is experienced and made sense of by six people with early-stage dementia. Individual, semi-structured interviews took place in participants’ homes. An in-depth analysis of the data revealed four superordinate themes implicated in shame experiences: Avoidance explains the participants’ efforts to distance themselves from shaming experiences; participants reported Negative self-perceptions including a weakening self, loss of value and meaninglessness; Relationship matters involved issues around trust, burden and past relationships and Uncertainty and loss of control highlights participants’ anxiety about losing clarity and control. Ideas are contributed for promoting non-shaming experiences for people with dementia, particularly through communication during assessment and diagnosis, and psychological therapies.
Met and unmet care needs of older people with dementia living at home: Personal and informal carers’ perspectives
Authors: Mazurek Justyna , Szcześniak Dorota , Urbańska Katarzyna , Dröes Rose-Marie , Rymaszewska Joanna
Published: December 2017

In Poland, there are few reports of the holistic approach to caring for older people with dementia. The aim of this study was to assess the needs of people with dementia living at home. This was done by evaluating the perspective of people with dementia themselves and that of their carers. The study included 47 people diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia and 41 informal carers, all living in Wroclaw in Poland, involved in the MeetingDem project. The needs were assessed using the CANE. Other scales used were: the MMSE, the GDS and the QOL-AD. The carers reported significantly more needs, both met and unmet, than the people with dementia themselves. The most frequent reported unmet needs both by the people with dementia and their carers included activities of daily living, psychological distress and the need for company. Based on this study’s findings, tailored multidisciplinary treatment, adjusted to their needs and wishes, can be offered thus creating integrated and individualised support.
The lines are open: An artist’s experience of working with dementia research
Authors: Harrison Charles R
Published: December 2017

This paper offers a first-hand account from a visual artist working with people living with a rare dementia. It explores the processes and motivations involved in situating an individual artistic practice in the field of dementia research. The paper discusses the potential role of creative art-making for neuropsychological testing and some of the complexities of interpretation that this involves. This account also highlights the ways in which working with people with dementia can be personally and artistically transformative.
Influence of leadership on implementing Dementia Care Mapping: A multiple case study
Authors: Quasdorf Tina , Bartholomeyczik Sabine
Published: December 2017

Dementia Care Mapping is an internationally applied method for enhancing person-centred care for people with dementia in nursing homes. Recent studies indicate that leadership is crucial for the successful implementation of Dementia Care Mapping; however, research on this topic is rare. This case study aimed to explore the influence of leadership on Dementia Care Mapping implementation in four nursing homes. Twenty-eight interviews with project coordinators, head nurses and staff nurses were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Nursing homes that failed to implement Dementia Care Mapping were characterised by a lack of leadership. The leaders of successful nursing homes promoted person-centred care and were actively involved in implementation. While overall leadership performance was positive in one of the successful nursing homes, conflicts related to leadership style occurred in the other successful nursing homes. Thus, it is important that leaders promote person-centred care in general and Dementia Care Mapping in particular. Furthermore, different types of leadership can promote successful implementation.

Trial registration of the primary study: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN43916381.