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Toward a theory‐based specification of non‐pharmacological treatments in aging and dementia: Focused reviews and methodological recommendations
Author(s) -
Sikkes Sietske A.M.,
Tang Yi,
Jutten Roos J.,
Wesselman Linda M.P.,
Turkstra Lyn S.,
Brodaty Henry,
Clare Linda,
CassidyEagle Erin,
Cox Kay L.,
Chételat Gaël,
Dautricourt Sophie,
Dhana Klodian,
Dodge Hiroko,
Dröes RoseMarie,
Hampstead Benjamin M.,
Holland Thomas,
Lampit Amit,
Laver Kate,
Lutz Antoine,
Lautenschlager Nicola T.,
McCurry Susan M.,
Meiland Franka J. M.,
Morris Martha Clare,
Mueller Kimberly D.,
Peters Ruth,
Ridel Gemma,
Spector Aimee,
Steen Jenny T.,
Tamplin Jeanette,
Thompson Zara,
BaharFuchs Alex
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
alzheimer's and dementia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.713
H-Index - 118
eISSN - 1552-5279
pISSN - 1552-5260
DOI - 10.1002/alz.12188
Subject(s) - dementia , management science , computer science , best practice , psychology , position paper , risk analysis (engineering) , data science , medicine , political science , engineering , disease , pathology , world wide web , law
Non‐pharmacological treatments (NPTs) have the potential to improve meaningful outcomes for older people at risk of, or living with dementia, but research often lacks methodological rigor and continues to produce mixed results. Methods In the current position paper, experts in NPT research have specified treatment targets, aims, and ingredients using an umbrella framework, the Rehabilitation Treatment Specification System. Results Experts provided a snapshot and an authoritative summary of the evidence for different NPTs based on the best synthesis efforts, identified main gaps in knowledge and relevant barriers, and provided directions for future research. Experts in trial methodology provide best practice principles and recommendations for those working in this area, underscoring the importance of prespecified protocols. Discussion We conclude that the evidence strongly supports various NPTs in relation to their primary targets, and discuss opportunities and challenges associated with a unifying theoretical framework to guide future efforts in this area.