Trained assistance dogs for people with dementia: a systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review investigated evidence for the effectiveness of trained assistance dogs as an intervention and support for people with dementia. Peer‐reviewed articles were retrieved from multiple databases (SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar). Reference lists of the articles retrieved were also screened to identify key authors for inclusion. Articles were subject to a quality review, and the results synthesised to address the research questions. Both qualitative and quantitative data were reported. There was evidence of the potential positive effects of dog‐assisted interventions in relation to mood, prosocial behaviours, activities of daily living and/or quality of life, cognitive impairment and symptoms specific to dementia, and existential functions. However, the form and quality of the studies varied considerably. It was concluded that further research is needed, particularly for those with younger onset dementia (YOD), for whom there were no specific studies available. Attention needs to be given to establishing adequate‐sized samples and designs incorporating control groups. Research would benefit from employing mixed‐methods, allowing for the triangulation of qualitative and quantitative data. For deteriorating conditions such as the dementias, studies need to be conducted over time. Furthermore, given the important place family members play in the lives of those with dementia, the effects of dog‐assisted interventions on the wider family should also be considered.

Effects of Pet Therapy in Elderly Patients with Neurocognitive Disorders: A Brief Review

“…For these reasons, alternative psychosocial interventions that avoid the use of drugs are being sought, and the World Health Organization also proposes the creation of plans and programs to improve the social well-being and quality of life of all those affected by NCD and their caregivers [ 21 ]. For this reason, one of the possibilities explored is the use of therapy animals, which is generating considerable interest in education and health services [ 25 ]. Pet therapy, as a type of intervention, is not intended to cure the disease, given the progressive form of the disorder.…”

Animal-Assisted Therapy as a Non-Pharmacological Approach in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Retrospective Study

“…However, more extensive studies should be conducted to strengthen the existing evidence, by measurement of biochemical parameters such as cortisol, for example [ 12 ]. The intensity and procedures of therapy should be standardized for a better interpretation of the benefits for patients [ 15 ], considering also the main role of the dog as co-therapist [ 38 ]. In addition, it would be desirable to standardize the methodologies used in terms of Alzheimer’s diagnosis and age of the patients, always include a control group, use a wider battery of measurement tests for the cognitive impairment and mood, establish an increased frequency of sessions (preferably weekly), and plan longer-lasting interventions.…”

Issues Regarding the Welfare of Assistance Dogs

“…Whereas dogs who replace a sense or physical capacity that has no impact on the capacity to care for oneself or an animal, animals that help replace a cognitive process can be placed with handlers who have their capacity to care for themselves and animals reduced [ 32 ]. For example, there has been growth in the area of provision of assistance dogs for persons living with dementia, but the research in support of specific benefits is mixed [ 33 ]. Marks and McVilly, in their 2020 review paper [ 33 ], specifically note the lack of consistency in the quality and training of dogs for persons living with dementia.…”

“…For example, there has been growth in the area of provision of assistance dogs for persons living with dementia, but the research in support of specific benefits is mixed [ 33 ]. Marks and McVilly, in their 2020 review paper [ 33 ], specifically note the lack of consistency in the quality and training of dogs for persons living with dementia. In some instances, it was unclear whether the dogs had even received any specific training.…”