Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Prevalence of Mental Illness Among Nursing Home Residents

Abstract

Abstract Background: There is a high prevalence of mental illness in nursing home residents compared to older adults living in the community. This was highlighted in the most recent comprehensive systematic review on the topic, published in 2010. An updated systematic review and meta-analysis is needed to provide a contemporary account of mental illness among nursing home residents, especially in the context of a rapidly aging population and increased numbers of older adults requiring residential care. Methods: This protocol was prepared in line with the PRISMA-P 2015 Statement. Systematic searches will be undertaken in August 2023 across six electronic databases: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycNET, CINAHL, and Abstracts in Social Gerontology. Database searches will be supplemented by forward and backward citation searches of previously published reviews. Titles and abstracts of records will be screened using a semi‑automated process, facilitated by an online review management platform. The full text of selected records will subsequently be assessed to confirm inclusion criteria are met. Study selection will be recorded in a PRISMA flowchart. A pilot-tested form will be used to extract data from included studies. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data will be used to undertake quality assessments of included studies. A summary of findings table will be prepared to present key details from each included study, supported by a narrative synthesis. Random-effects meta-analyses will be performed to compute pooled prevalence estimates for mental illnesses represented in the identified studies. Heterogeneity will be assessed using I2 statistics. A Funnel plot and Egger’s test will be used to assess publication bias. The GRADE approach will be used to assess the quality of the body of evidence identified. Discussion: The study will provide a comprehensive and contemporary account of the prevalence of mental illness among nursing home residents. Meta-analyses will provide robust prevalence estimates across a range of presentations. Key insights will be highlighted, including potential sources of heterogeneity. Implications for residents, researchers, care providers, and policy makers will be noted. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO: CRD42023456226