Sensory-Based Interventions for Adults with Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The purpose of this review was to explore the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions for clients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease living in residential facilities. Nine databases and key sources were searched from 2002 to September 2017. Forty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. There was strong evidence for use of massage. There was moderate evidence for occupationally and environmentally based multisensory activities including light, gardening, mealtime, music, Montessori, animal assisted therapy, dance, and yoga interventions. There was inconclusive evidence for aromatherapy, art, Snoezelen rooms, and combined visual and auditory interventions. Future research should focus on defining protocols for efficacious interventions.

Keywords:

• Geriatrics
• memory care
• sensory stimulation
• sensory processing

Declaration of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

About the Authors

Dr. Bryce Carsone Smith received her doctorate in occupational therapy from Nova Southeastern University. Clinical practice and research are her primary areas of focus. Dr. Smith is currently an occupational therapist at the Cleveland Clinic Fairview Wellness Center where she has specialized in lymphedema and breast cancer rehabilitation.

Dr. Mariana D'Amico received her BS in occupational therapy from New York University and her advanced practice MS degree from Eastern Kentucky University, and her EdD from Spalding University. She has been an occupational therapist for many years working in both clinical and educational settings. Dr. D'Amico has worked with clients across the lifespan in multiple venues. She has expertise in early intervention, pediatrics, school-based practice, skilled nursing facilities, low vision, community-based practice, mental health, sexuality across the lifespan, developmental disabilities, hand rehabilitation, sensory integration and processing, assessments, and pediatrics. She has presented on multiple topics regionally, nationally and internationally. She continues to learn from her clients, colleagues and students, and enjoys being an occupational therapist in all its facets.

Dr. D'Amico has worked with clients across the lifespan in multiple venues. Practice and teaching remain her passions. She has expertise in multiple areas of practice. She has presented with colleagues and students on multiple topics regionally, nationally and internationally. She continues to learn from her clients, colleagues and students, and enjoys occupational therapy with all its facets. She currently works at Nova Southeastern University, Tampa Bay Campus.