Models of care for people with dementia applied in practice

Abstract

Abstract Aim. The study highlights the different concepts of dementia care models which are used in different care settings and determine the effectiveness and contribute to a better quality of life for people with dementia. Methods. This literature review use PRISMA process for data collection and analysis. Scientific and professional publications in English were searched through international specialized databases; EBSCO HOST, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed and Wiley Online Library. The review results were founded by key words and then selected according to the publication time frame and other shaped criteria. Results. In total 1998 references were identified for the thematic content analysis, in the final review we included 29 studies. Two thematic areas were identified according to the keywords and literature search strategy: dementia care models and geriatric models of care. Further, we formed four concepts highlighted in models that reflect the specific characteristics and principles of care: biopsychosocial approach, person-centred care practice, environment of care, and Montessori for dementia care. Conclusions. Most of featured models advocated the implementation of comprehensive, integrated and person-centred care, focused to honour and integrate an individual’s life story with their needs into daily care as much as possible in an appropriate and customized environment. Currently the most innovative model is based on implementation of Montessori approach into person’s daily activities.