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De Santis M, Filugelli L, Mair A, Normando S, Mutinelli F, Contalbrigo L. How to Measure Human-Dog Interaction in Dog Assisted Interventions? A Scoping Review. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:410. [PMID: 38338052 PMCID: PMC10854530 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Human-dog interaction is the working tool through which the therapeutic, educational and recreational goals of dog-assisted interventions (DAIs) are achieved. A better understanding of the characteristics of this interaction could improve the effectiveness of DAIs. This scoping review addresses the question: how has the human-dog connection been measured in the context of DAIs? After searching the Web of Science and Scopus platforms, only peer-reviewed, primary research studies reporting measures of therapy dog-human interaction, relationship and bond were included. A total of 70 included articles provided information on what was measured (interaction, relationship or bond) and how, as well as the general context (DAIs or experimental situations with therapy dogs). While the majority of the articles identified use behavioural analysis methods to analyse the interaction between the participant/recipient and the therapy dog during DAIs, it was possible to identify some more structured tools that assess the participant/recipient's interaction, relationship or bond with the therapy dog, as well as tools that consider the animal's perspective or focus on the dog-handler dyad, indicating growing areas of research. The tools and methods identified can be used by both practitioners and researchers to further explore aspects of human-dog interaction in the field of DAIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta De Santis
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (M.D.S.); (L.F.); (F.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Lorena Filugelli
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (M.D.S.); (L.F.); (F.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Alberto Mair
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (M.D.S.); (L.F.); (F.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Simona Normando
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, Università degli Studi di Padova, Viale dell’Università, 14, 35020 Legnaro, Italy;
| | - Franco Mutinelli
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (M.D.S.); (L.F.); (F.M.); (L.C.)
| | - Laura Contalbrigo
- National Reference Centre for Animal Assisted Interventions, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell’Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (M.D.S.); (L.F.); (F.M.); (L.C.)
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Landman W, Bogaerts S, Spreen M. How to Evaluate a Tailor-made Social Work Intervention? Some Practice-Based Solutions with Single-Case Designs. JOURNAL OF EVIDENCE-BASED SOCIAL WORK (2019) 2023; 20:595-622. [PMID: 37461304 DOI: 10.1080/26408066.2023.2192709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE With the increased attention to the principles of evidence-based practice (EBP), social workers are challenged to adapt their daily interventions accordingly when treating clients. They usually work with individual clients, all with their own specificities. Single-Case Experimental Designs (SCEDs) can be used to inform a social worker about the effectiveness of an intervention at the individual client level. In everyday social work practice, however, it is difficult to meet methodological requirements of SCEDs to find causal explanations. A concern is that repeated measurements prior to an intervention are required in most situations. This study aims to provide researchers with alternatives to repeated measurement when using the logic of SCED to apply EBP in their everyday practice. METHODS In this study, we reviewed published single-case designs between January 1 and December 31, 2019, on types of SCEDs in the social domain, and how is dealt with baseline conditions. RESULTS SCEDs and quasi-experimental alternatives are hardly published in situations when baseline data are not available. Four underused quasi-experimental strategies that can be employed when repeated measurement during baseline is not possible are as follows: retrospective baselines, theoretical inference, multiraters, and triangulation with qualitative data. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The suggestions to work with single-case designs with quasi-experimental elements are meant to enable social workers to evaluate their interventions in a way that enhances mere narrative evaluations of the experiences of an intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willem Landman
- Academy of Social Studies, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Bogaerts
- Department of Developmental Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- Academy of Research Innovation and Development, Fivoor, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marinus Spreen
- Academy of Social Studies, NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
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Shoesmith E, Surr C, Ratschen E. Animal-assisted and robotic animal-assisted interventions within dementia care: A systematic review. DEMENTIA 2023; 22:664-693. [PMID: 36765455 PMCID: PMC10014823 DOI: 10.1177/14713012231155985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Animal-assisted interventions and robotic animal interventions are becoming increasingly popular to support the care of people with dementia and may have the potential to improve a range of psychosocial outcomes. This review aims to identify, describe, and compare animal-assisted and robotic animal interventions delivered to people with dementia, their characteristics, effectiveness, and the proposed mechanisms underlying any potential impact. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE, PsycINFO, OVID Nursing, PubMed, CINAHL and Web of Science. Random-effects meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted to summarise studies that evaluated common outcomes (agitation, depression, quality of life). A narrative approach was used to synthesise other findings. RESULTS Fifty-one studies were included: 18 RCTs; 12 non-randomised trials, 13 cohort studies, 7 qualitative studies and one mixed-methods study. Meta-analyses were conducted for a small number of RCTs, with effectiveness of animal-assisted interventions demonstrated for agitation. Narrative findings suggested animal-assisted and robotic animal interventions may be promising in improving depression, agitation, and quality of life. Three potential mechanisms of action were identified for both animal-assisted and robotic animal interventions, namely enhancing social connections, providing engaging and meaningful activities, and the affect-generating aspect of the human-animal bond. A fourth mechanism was identified for animal-assisted interventions only: promoting physical activity. Robotic animals appear to have a place in complex human-animal relationships, but a greater understanding of robotic animal interventions is required to harness the benefits that may be derived from their use. CONCLUSION Delivering these interventions appear promising in improving psychosocial outcomes for people with dementia. As most included studies had methodological limitations, these findings are preliminary, but contribute to the body of evidence providing an understanding in terms of intervention characteristics and mechanisms of action. When developing intervention guidance, attention should be given to potential mechanisms and fundamental characteristics such as session content, delivery format and facilitator role.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claire Surr
- Centre for Dementia Research, 4467Leeds Beckett University, UK
| | - Elena Ratschen
- Department of Health Sciences, 8748University of York, UK
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Rodrigo-Claverol M, Manuel-Canals M, Lobato-Rincón LL, Rodriguez-Criado N, Roman-Casenave M, Musull-Dulcet E, Rodrigo-Claverol E, Pifarré J, Miró-Bernaus Y. Human-Animal Bond Generated in a Brief Animal-Assisted Therapy Intervention in Adolescents with Mental Health Disorders. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030358. [PMID: 36766247 PMCID: PMC9913319 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human-animal bond is crucial for the proper development of animal-assisted therapy (AAT) sessions. However, in specific cases such as in AAT focused on psychiatric patients who are admitted to acute units, there is only a short period of time available to establish this bond. OBJECTIVES To assess the degree of HAB generated after two AAT sessions in adolescents admitted to acute psychiatry units. METHODS A prospective multicenter cohort study aimed at adolescents aged 13 to 17 years admitted to the acute child and adolescent psychiatry unit of three hospitals. INTERVENTION Two weekly 1 h group sessions of AAT with therapy dogs. MAIN OUTCOME The Center for the Study of Animal Wellness Pet Bonding Scale Survey (CSAWPB). RESULTS One hundred and fourteen adolescents participated. A positive perception of the dog was generated, achieving a good level of bonding and attachment. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained make it possible to affirm that a short period of time is enough to establish a good HAB between patients and therapy dogs. This study aims to contribute to the study of non-pharmacological interventions as a complement to pharmacological treatments in adolescents with mental health disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maylos Rodrigo-Claverol
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain
- Ilerkan Association, 25005 Lleida, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Esther Rodrigo-Claverol
- Ilerkan Association, 25005 Lleida, Spain
- Primary Health Care Center Primer de Maig, Catalan Institute of Health, 25003 Lleida, Spain
| | - Josep Pifarré
- Institute for Biomedical Research in Lleida Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
- San Juan de Dios Provincia de España, 25001 Lleida, Spain
| | - Yvette Miró-Bernaus
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain
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Fogelson DM, Rutledge C, Zimbro KS. The Impact of Robotic Companion Pets on Depression and Loneliness for Older Adults with Dementia During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Holist Nurs 2021; 40:397-409. [PMID: 34889146 DOI: 10.1177/08980101211064605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Differences in depression and loneliness, during the COVID-19 pandemic, for older adults with mild to moderate dementia living in residential care after interacting with a robotic companion dog or cat were explored. Experiences of family members and professional caregivers were also examined. Design: This study used a mixed research design with pre- and post-questionnaires on depression and loneliness. Method: Quantitative data exploring the impact of companion pets on depression and loneliness were collected from participants pre-intervention and at 3- and 6-week intervals. Qualitative data were collected during the 6-week study period, permitting researchers to explore the impact of robotic companion pets on participants, family members, and professional caregivers. Findings: Results indicated depression (χ2F(2) = 21.29, p < 0.001) and loneliness (χ2F(2) = 21.11, p < 0.001) improved. Moreover, participants were engaged with their companion pet, providing meaningful, activity and positive experiences. Conclusions: Robotic companion pet therapy, a holistic, nonpharmacologic animal-assisted therapy (AAT), changed the AAT landscape at the study site and provided an alternative option to live pet therapy during COVID-19. Participant interactions with their robotic companion pets enhanced their well-being and quality of life, especially during stringent COVID-19 restrictions and social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna M Fogelson
- 49374Old Dominion University, 520792Virginia Beach Higher Education Center, University Drive
| | - Carolyn Rutledge
- 49374Old Dominion University, 520792Virginia Beach Higher Education Center, University Drive
| | - Kathie S Zimbro
- 49374Old Dominion University, 520792Virginia Beach Higher Education Center, University Drive
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Effects of animal-assisted interventions for people with dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Geriatr Nurs 2021; 43:26-37. [PMID: 34800888 DOI: 10.1016/j.gerinurse.2021.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) are non-pharmacological, cost-effective interventions developed to improve outcomes in patients with dementia; however, the effects remain inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to analyze the efficacy of AAIs for people with dementia. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed of English-language literature published from January 1, 2001, to July 3,2021, and indexed in the following databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, and PsycINFO. Intervention groups were people with dementia who received AAIs. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Among 10 included studies, significant differences in depression levels were identified between the intervention and control groups (p < 0.001). No significant differences in cognitive function, neuropsychiatric syndrome, or independence in activities of daily living were observed between groups. Future research remains necessary to examine the effects of AAIs on depression during different stages of dementia. AAIs therapists may collaborate with healthcare workers to improve AAIs benefits.
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Santaniello A, Garzillo S, Cristiano S, Fioretti A, Menna LF. The Research of Standardized Protocols for Dog Involvement in Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Systematic Review. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092576. [PMID: 34573542 PMCID: PMC8468867 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Dogs are considered the most important species involved in animal-assisted therapy (AAT), and the scientific literature focuses on the benefits linked to the involvement of dogs in various therapeutic areas. In this study, we carried out a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, exploring the scientific literature from the last 5 years (2016-2021) on three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) to highlight the characteristics of the dogs involved in AATs. Based on the scientific literature relevant to such dogs, we considered different parameters (i.e., number, age, sex, breed, temperament, methods of choice and training, health status, research goals, and activities with dogs) to include studies in our paper. After screening 4331 papers identified on the searched databases, we selected 38 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Analysis of the included articles showed that the characteristics of the dogs were neglected. Our findings indicated a lack of information about the dogs, as well as the absence of standardized and univocal criteria for dog selection, training programs, and health protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Santaniello
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (L.F.M.); Tel.: +39-0812536134 (A.S. & L.F.M.)
| | - Susanne Garzillo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Serena Cristiano
- SInAPSi Center, University of Naples Federico II, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Alessandro Fioretti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
| | - Lucia Francesca Menna
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples Federico II, 80134 Naples, Italy; (S.G.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence: (A.S.); (L.F.M.); Tel.: +39-0812536134 (A.S. & L.F.M.)
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Lobato Rincón LL, Rivera Martín B, Medina Sánchez MÁ, Villafaina S, Merellano-Navarro E, Collado-Mateo D. Effects of Dog-Assisted Education on Physical and Communicative Skills in Children with Severe and Multiple Disabilities: A Pilot Study. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061741. [PMID: 34200895 PMCID: PMC8230480 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal-assisted interventions have shown promising benefits in different populations such as children with cerebral palsy or autism spectrum disorder. Human-animal interaction leads to different physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits in the child. The aim of the current pilot study was to evaluate the effects of a dog-assisted education program on the postural, oculomotor, linguistic and autonomy dimensions in children affected by severe and multiple disabilities. Fourteen children aged 3-12 years and affected by intellectual and physical disabilities participated in a dog-assisted program consisted of 12 sessions. The intervention involved different types of activities, exercises, and games with the dogs. A strict protocol to ensure animal wellbeing and avoid any type of stress or fatigue was followed. Children who participated in the study improved their postural control, eye-motor coordination, expression of sensations and feelings, spontaneous interaction, autonomy, and confidence. However, these results must be taken with caution due to the lack of a control group and the heterogeneity of the participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Lucio Lobato Rincón
- Animal-Assisted Intervention Office, King Juan Carlos University, Móstoles, 28933 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.L.R.); (D.C.-M.)
- Department of Psychology, King Juan Carlos University, Alcorcón, 28922 Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Rivera Martín
- Animal-Assisted Intervention Office, King Juan Carlos University, Móstoles, 28933 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.L.R.); (D.C.-M.)
- Department of Communication and Sociology Sciences, King Juan Carlos University, Fuenlabrada, 28943 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (B.R.M.); (S.V.)
| | | | - Santos Villafaina
- Physical Activity and Quality of Life Research Group (AFYCAV), Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Extremadura, 10003 Caceres, Spain
- Correspondence: (B.R.M.); (S.V.)
| | | | - Daniel Collado-Mateo
- Animal-Assisted Intervention Office, King Juan Carlos University, Móstoles, 28933 Madrid, Spain; (L.L.L.R.); (D.C.-M.)
- Centre for Sport Studies, Rey Juan Carlos University, Fuenlabrada, 28943 Madrid, Spain
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Effects of Dog-Assisted Therapies on Cognitive Mnemonic Capabilities in People Affected by Alzheimer's Disease. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051366. [PMID: 34064930 PMCID: PMC8151255 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia in humans and, as the disease progresses, symptoms become more relevant, with significant interference in daily activities and social relations. Currently, a valid treatment is lacking and no highly effective drug has yet been approved for Alzheimer’s disease treatment. Animal-assisted interventions play a significant role in the lives of people with dementia. The purpose of the present study is to provide a contribution to research on elderly patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease in whom dog-assisted therapies prove to be effective and fully validated during the period of time for which the patient has contact with the animal. The index of impairment of cognitive skills was assessed through different tests. Two months after the end of the sessions, the test results decreased to their initial values. Abstract Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in humans and, currently, a valid treatment is lacking. Our goal is to demonstrate the importance and benefits of the relationship with companion animals (considered as co-therapists), intended as a means of facilitating social relations and promoting evident wellbeing in AD patients. The study involved 30 randomly chosen patients with Alzheimer’s disease (group T) and three dogs. The group participated in a total of 24 animal-assisted interventions (AAIs) sessions over a span of 12 weeks, using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Wellness and Cognitive Ability Questionnaire (Brief Assessment Cognition or BAC), and Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS) as assessment tests. A second group (group C), consisting of 10 people with AD, was enrolled as control group and underwent the same assessment tests but did not benefit from the presence of the dogs. Tests were carried out at time T0 (before starting sessions), T1 (end of sessions), and T2 (two months after last session). People belonging to group T achieved an overall improvement in their perceived state of wellbeing, even on a cognitive and mnemonic plane. However, two months after the end of the sessions, the test results in people suffering from AD decreased towards the baseline (T0). The study shows how such progress can be achieved through activities based on the relationship with an animal, as long as the animal is a steady presence in the life of the patient receiving the intervention. Dogs involved in other dog-assisted therapies have been found suitable also for assisting patients with AD.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The WHO updated concept of health includes social health alongside physical and mental health. No existing reviews have examined the evidence for preserving or enhancing social health in people living with neurocognitive disorders, such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia. The present review examines recent epidemiological studies and interventions with social health outcome measures, including interventions across multiple modalities and settings, from communities to assisted living facilities. RECENT FINDINGS Epidemiological evidence shows that neurocognitive disorders are associated with poorer social support, and greater social isolation and loneliness. This highlights the importance of maintaining and enhancing social health in people living with neurocognitive disorders. Group activities involving dance or music have emerging evidence indicating improvements in social health in communities and assisted living facilities. More quantitative research is required on the social health benefits of cognitive/multicomponent interventions, community social groups, exercise groups and other interventions. Several socially assistive robots are being developed to help foster social participation and require further research. SUMMARY There is evidence that group music or dance interventions can improve social health for people living with neurocognitive disorders. Larger trials with multiple social health outcome measures are required to investigate the social health benefits of exercise, cognitive/multicomponent and community social group interventions.
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Vegue Parra E, Hernández Garre JM, Echevarría Pérez P. Benefits of Dog-Assisted Therapy in Patients with Dementia Residing in Aged Care Centers in Spain. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18041471. [PMID: 33557254 PMCID: PMC7914582 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
(1) Background: Currently, the scientific evidence on the benefits of assisted therapy with dogs in dementia is not clear. In this study, we want to evaluate such benefits through a randomized controlled clinical trial in multiple centers across the country. (2) Methods: The participants were people over 65 years old with dementia, residing in senior centers in Spain (n = 334). The experimental group underwent assisted therapy with dogs based on the Comprehensive Cognitive Activation Program in Dementia, for 8 months, with weekly sessions of 45 min. Data were collected at the commencement, middle, and end of the program, to evaluate the aspects using the Mini-Examination Cognitive, the modified Bartell Index, the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. (3) Results: The results show significant improvements in the experimental group versus the control group in the affective (T1 = p 0.000; T2 = p 0.000) and behavioral (T1 = p 0.005; T2 = p 0.000) aspects, with the affective aspect displaying greater progress in participants with additional depressive (p = 0.022) or anxiety (p = 0.000) disorders, shorter institutionalization periods (r = −0.222, p = 0.004), and those undergoing complementary psychotherapy (p = 0.033) or alternative therapy (p = 0.011). (4) Conclusions: Dog therapy is effective in improving the affective and behavioral aspects of institutionalized patients with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Vegue Parra
- Health Sciences PhD Program, Campus de los Jerónimos nº135, Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM), Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Jose Manuel Hernández Garre
- Department of Political Sciences, Social Anthropology and Public Finance, Calle Campus Universitario, University of Murcia, s/n, El Puntal, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Paloma Echevarría Pérez
- Health Sciences PhD Program, Campus de los Jerónimos nº135, Universidad Católica de Murcia (UCAM), Guadalupe, 30107 Murcia, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-628213984
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Forget S, Pennequin V, Agli O, Bailly N. Brakes and levers to implement an animal-assisted intervention in nursing homes: Preliminary study. Complement Ther Med 2020; 56:102591. [PMID: 33197666 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing numbers of scientific studies have dealt with the benefits of animal assisted intervention programs (AAI). Although many positive effects have been identified, there are still few AAI programs in nursing homes. To date, no study has investigated special the difficulties in implementing such a program. The aim of this study was to explore the representations of this type of program among caregivers. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted between January and June 2019. Psychologists conducted 11 interviews with people working in nursing homes. The sample was based on different professions and on the fact that participants had already been involved in an IAA program. RESULTS The results were organized according to two main themes: brakes and levers. The results show that the brakes were raised quickly before the implementation of the project, but once the project had been implemented, the perceived beneficial effects multiplied and all those interviewed mentioned the benefits of animals. More than half of the caregivers interviewed mentioned animals as a lever, facilitating contact with elderly people suffering from dementia. Setting up a project upstream enhanced the success of this type of program. CONCLUSION The benefits perceived by the people interviewed are consistent with the scientific literature. The obstacles mentioned for implementing this type of program can be reduced by a rigorous and well-thought-out project.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Forget
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France.
| | - Valérie Pennequin
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Oceane Agli
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France
| | - Nathalie Bailly
- 3 rue des tanneurs, 37041, TOURS Cedex 1, France; Laboratory EA 2114 « psychologie des âges de la vie et adaptation », Department Psychology, University of Tours, Tours, France
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13
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Rodrigo-Claverol M, Malla-Clua B, Marquilles-Bonet C, Sol J, Jové-Naval J, Sole-Pujol M, Ortega-Bravo M. Animal-Assisted Therapy Improves Communication and Mobility among Institutionalized People with Cognitive Impairment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E5899. [PMID: 32823839 PMCID: PMC7459682 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17165899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Disorders of communication, social relationships, and psychomotricity are often characterized by cognitive impairment, which hinders daily activities and increases the risk of falls. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an animal-assisted therapy (AAT) program in an institutionalized geriatric population with cognitive impairment. The variables evaluated included level of communication and changes in gait and/or balance. We performed a two-arm, parallel controlled, open-label, nonrandomized cluster clinical trial in two nursing home centers from an urban area. Patients in the two centers received 12 weekly sessions of physiotherapy, but the experimental group included AAT with a therapy dog. The study included a total of 46 patients (23 Control Group [CG], 23 Experimental Group [EG]) with a median age of 85.0 years. Of these, 32.6% had mild-moderate cognitive decline (Global Deterioration Scale of Reisberg [GDS] 2-4) and 67.4% severe cognitive decline (GDS 5-6). After the intervention, patients in the CG and EG showed a statistically significant improvement in all the response variables. When comparing both groups, no statistically significant differences were found in any of the Tinetti scale results (measuring gait and balance). However, the communication of patients in the EG, measured on the Holden scale, showed a statistically significant greater improvement postintervention than that of patients in the CG. AAT can be useful as a complementary, effective treatment for patients with different degrees of cognitive decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maylos Rodrigo-Claverol
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain; (B.M.-C.); (C.M.-B.); (J.J.-N.)
- Ilerkan Association, 25005 Lleida, Spain;
| | - Belén Malla-Clua
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain; (B.M.-C.); (C.M.-B.); (J.J.-N.)
| | - Carme Marquilles-Bonet
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain; (B.M.-C.); (C.M.-B.); (J.J.-N.)
| | - Joaquim Sol
- Research Support Unit Lleida, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l’Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (J.S.); (M.O.-B.)
- Institut Català de la Salut, Atenció Primària, 25007 Lleida, Spain
- Metabolic Physiopathology Research Group, Experimental Medicine Department, Lleida University-Lleida Biochemical Research Institute (UdL-IRBLleida), 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Júlia Jové-Naval
- Primary Health Care Center Bordeta-Magraners, Catalan Institute of Health, 25001 Lleida, Spain; (B.M.-C.); (C.M.-B.); (J.J.-N.)
- Ilerkan Association, 25005 Lleida, Spain;
| | | | - Marta Ortega-Bravo
- Research Support Unit Lleida, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l’Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain; (J.S.); (M.O.-B.)
- Institut Català de la Salut, Atenció Primària, 25007 Lleida, Spain
- Research Group in Therapies in Primary Care, Research Support Unit Lleida, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l’Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
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