Analysis of Intergenerational Programs Among Alzheimer’s Dementia Patients

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this review is to synthesize evidence regarding the implementation of intergenerational programs with a specific emphasis on toddler age groups of children and their direct interaction and outcomes measurement with individuals residing in long term care facilities with progressive advancing dementia. Methods: Articles chosen for this review were examined for the effects of intergenerational therapy programs for elderly patients with dementia and children from infancy up until kindergarten. Eligibility criteria included research published in the English language, between 1980 to the present, nursing home-based elderly population, and children up to five years of age. Results: Positive themes included improved cognition, relationships, and positive affect. Gratification, improved cognitive functioning and relationships, and overall improvement in psychosocial status were also identified. Statistical significance was identified among improved stress levels using the Beck Anxiety Inventory. Negative outcomes identified across studies included feelings of fatigue, frustration, and an unwillingness to participate for unidentified reasons. Conclusion: Advancing life expectancy predisposes our population for a heightened occurrence of dementia diagnoses, with concerns for both physical and mental illnesses. Continued research in this population to include novel methodologies to prevent many of these fatal comorbidities is critically indicated. Emerging trends appear to be moving away from traditional pharmacotherapeutic measures, with a shift toward safer, most cost-effective cognitive and behavioral approaches. Intergenerational programs could potentially serve as an alternative therapy which could provide improvements on quality of life among our elderly residents with dementia residing in long term care facilities.