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Animal-Assisted Intervention and Dementia: A Systematic Review
Michelle L Yakimicki1, Nancy E Edwards1, Elizabeth Richards1
11 Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
Clinical Nursing Research
|February 15, 2018
Summary
Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) significantly improve social behaviors, physical activity, and dietary intake in dementia patients. AAI also positively impacts agitation, aggression, and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Animal-assisted therapy
Background:
- Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) significantly impact patient well-being and care.
- Animal-assisted interventions (AAI) are increasingly explored as a non-pharmacological approach to manage BPSD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the existing literature on the relationship between AAI and BPSD.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of AAI in managing various symptoms associated with dementia.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases (CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed, etc.).
- 32 primary research articles were included in the final review.
- Most studies (27/32) utilized dogs as the primary intervention.
Main Results:
- AAI demonstrated a strong positive effect on social behaviors, physical activity, and dietary intake.
- Significant decreases in agitation/aggression were observed in 9 of 15 studies.
- Quality of life improved in 3 of 4 studies, though mood results were mixed.
Conclusions:
- Animal-assisted interventions show considerable promise for improving multiple aspects of care for individuals with dementia.
- AAI is an effective complementary approach for enhancing social interaction, physical activity, and overall well-being in dementia patients.
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