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P2‐378: It Takes the Loneliness Away: Innovative Peer Support Programming for Dementia
Author(s) -
Theurer Kristine Annette,
Hall Jennifer
Publication year - 2016
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 - 10.1016/j.jalz.2016.06.1589
Subject(s) - loneliness , dementia , peer support , gerontology , social support , psychology , institutionalisation , medicine , disease , psychiatry , social psychology , pathology
Background:Adult day services empower older adults living with dementia who are lonely or isolated and can no longermanage independently. At the same time, they offer caregivers a break from caregiving duties. A recent study offered compelling evidence that the use of adult day services and sociaprograms offered reduce the risk of institutionalization in community-dwelling seniors living with dementia (Kelly, Puurveen & Gill, 2014). A growing number of adult day services are providing emotional and health support for individuals living with dementia. Despite their potential for improving dementia care however, there are mixed reviews of social programming offered in adult day services. In one study members in an adult day group objected to the ‘childlike’ activities offered (Tse & Howie, 2005). Pre-existing social and cultural influences have an impact those living with dementia and many become resigned to maintaining a passive role and keeping social interactions superficial. Peer support is positively associated with well-being as measured by a decrease in the rate of physical declines and a decrease in loneliness and depressive symptoms. Participating in a peer support group benefits thosewith dementia attending adult day programs by giving emotional and practical support, as well as increased self-esteem through the opportunities to help others. Research suggests that residents with cognitive impairment are capable of participating in peer support, if the right supports are in place. The Alzheimer Society Peel Day Program provides services uniquely designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other irreversible dementias. In the fall of 2015, they implemented peer support as a targeted intervention using an unique approach that empowers residents with dementia to engage in helping behaviors. Staff learned specialized techniques that honour individual needs and the inherent abilities of members to connect on an emotional basis. One group participant commented: “It takes the loneliness away.” The presenters will share results of an evaluation of this approach including implementation processes involved, research results and lessons learned.