Animal-assisted therapy : effects on communication and interaction in persons with dementia.

Abstract

Purpose: Due to an increase in the condition of dementia in elderly people, the urge to study the role of animals in trying to facilitate progress towards therapeutic goals leading to an increase in the quality of life amongst such residents, is the primary aim of this study. The research question of this dissertation is as follows: "In elderly nursing home residents with dementia, does the presence of animals or animal substitutes increase communication and interaction?" Thus the purpose of this dissertation is to investigate the outcomes of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) on dementia patients living in a nursing home residence, and if such a therapy would enhance communication and interaction amongst such residents. A substitute (plush animal or robotic pet) to a real pet can be introduced in situations where a real pet cannot be used. The effect of a substitute and if it increases communication and social interaction amongst dementia patients, is found in this study. Methods used: After conducting a literature search using electronic databases and systematically analyzing the validity, results and relevance of the studies with a critical appraisal tool (CAT), four studies which fit the inclusion criteria were chosen, all of which involved observational studies. Overall Findings: From the studies evaluated, evidence shows an increase in social interaction and communication of long-term residents suffering from dementia in the presence of an animal or a pet substitute, thus supporting the use and investigation of AAT. However, despite these positive outcomes of AAT, it appears that there is limited evidence to demonstrate such a therapy. Further research in this field is required to reach a more evidence-based practice.

Recommendations and Implications for Practice: Suggestions to build further research regarding the effect of pets or substitutes on dementia residents are proposed in this dissertation especially in the local context. To achieve successful results when using such a therapy one has to consider the type of pet introduced, the progression of the condition of dementia patients and the role of staff members. In situations where real pets cannot be introduced, it may be wise to consider a substitute instead. The ability to support any kind of AAT must be backed up by a rigid set of rules that will protect and maintain a healthy relationship between pets/substitutes and the patients/s considered.