Sensory-Based Interventions for Adults with Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease: A Scoping Review

  • Bryce Carsone Smith
  • , Mariana D'Amico

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

The purpose of this review was to explore the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions for clients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease living in residential facilities. Nine databases and key sources were searched from 2002 to September 2017. Forty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. There was strong evidence for use of massage. There was moderate evidence for occupationally and environmentally based multisensory activities including light, gardening, mealtime, music, Montessori, animal assisted therapy, dance, and yoga interventions. There was inconclusive evidence for aromatherapy, art, Snoezelen rooms, and combined visual and auditory interventions. Future research should focus on defining protocols for efficacious interventions.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)171-201
Number of pages31
JournalOccupational Therapy in Health Care
Volume34
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - May 8 2019

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Occupational Therapy

Keywords

  • Geriatrics
  • Memory care
  • Sensory processing
  • Sensory stimulation

Disciplines

  • Occupational Therapy

Cite this