TY - JOUR
T1 - Mechanism of action for nonpharmacological therapies for individuals with dementia
T2 - Implications for practice and research
AU - Burgener, Sandy C.
AU - Jao, Ying Ling
AU - Anderson, Joel G.
AU - Bossen, Ann L.
N1 - Publisher Copyright:
© SLACK Incorporated.
PY - 2015/11
Y1 - 2015/11
N2 - The current review addresses the need for increased use of evidence-based, nonpharmacological therapies for individuals with dementia. To facilitate understanding of the potential efficacy of nonpharmacological therapies on cognitive functioning for individuals with dementia, the mechanisms of action for selected therapies are described, including the assessment method used to identify the mechanism. The strength of evidence supporting each therapy was evaluated, with some therapies demonstrating strong support and others only moderate support for their effectiveness and mechanism of action. Therapieswith the strongest support include (a) cognitive training/stimulation, (b) physical exercise, and (c) music. Therapies with moderate support include (a) biofield, (b) meditation, (c) engagement with a naturally restorative environment, and (d) social engagement. Although the strength of evidence varies, together these therapies offer treatments designed to improve cognitive functioning, have low risks and adverse effects, and have the potential for widespread accessibility, thereby increasing the potential range of therapies for individuals with dementia.
AB - The current review addresses the need for increased use of evidence-based, nonpharmacological therapies for individuals with dementia. To facilitate understanding of the potential efficacy of nonpharmacological therapies on cognitive functioning for individuals with dementia, the mechanisms of action for selected therapies are described, including the assessment method used to identify the mechanism. The strength of evidence supporting each therapy was evaluated, with some therapies demonstrating strong support and others only moderate support for their effectiveness and mechanism of action. Therapieswith the strongest support include (a) cognitive training/stimulation, (b) physical exercise, and (c) music. Therapies with moderate support include (a) biofield, (b) meditation, (c) engagement with a naturally restorative environment, and (d) social engagement. Although the strength of evidence varies, together these therapies offer treatments designed to improve cognitive functioning, have low risks and adverse effects, and have the potential for widespread accessibility, thereby increasing the potential range of therapies for individuals with dementia.
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U2 - 10.3928/19404921-20150429-02
DO - 10.3928/19404921-20150429-02
M3 - Article
C2 - 25975348
AN - SCOPUS:84946919302
SN - 1940-4921
VL - 8
SP - 240
EP - 259
JO - Research in Gerontological Nursing
JF - Research in Gerontological Nursing
IS - 5
ER -