Abstract
The purpose of this literature review is to gather and review ten years of knowledge about the current use of canine animal assisted therapy (AAT) for older adults with dementia in long term care. Dementia is an increasing issue for the growing population of older adults. Gerontology seeks to provide understanding of issues impacting aging by studying the biopsyhosocial aspect of aging older adults. As we age, the rate of dementia in our population increases. The stages of dementia present ever increasing challenges for the individual, their caregiver, and society. Symptoms associated with disease such as behaviors, decline in physical function, apathy or reduced engagement, depression, and quality of life are common. Nonpharmacological interventions (NPI’s) are more effective than pharmacological interventions but their use presents system, staffing, and medical prescription issues. NPI’s are being pressured to show measurable impact as strains on funding increase. Canine AAT is a viable NPI adaptable to the stages of dementia. The current review on canine AAT will show us areas of strength and weakness to build upon. People with dementia need small group or individual therapeutic recreation interventions to receive the maximum benefit and canine AAT can be a part of their treatment plan. This literature review will show how the field of AAT is currently operated, what challenges and opportunities exist as it is presently used, what can be done with measurements, design, protocols, and standardization to improve the acceptance of AAT as a profession and industry. This literature review will provide a possible process for mainstreaming dog assisted therapy (DAT) to promote a viable and sustainable field which is recognized and reimbursed as therapeutic recreation intervention.
Advisor
Donald Ebel
Committee Member
Jeffrey A. Buchanan
Committee Member
James B. Wise
Date of Degree
2014
Language
english
Document Type
APP
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Program of Study
Gerontology (Aging Studies)
Department
Sociology and Leadership Studies
College
Humanities and Social Sciences
Recommended Citation
Wood, C. R. (2014). Canine animal assisted therapy for older adults with dementia in long term care: A review of literature [Master’s alternative plan paper, Minnesota State University, Mankato]. Cornerstone: A Collection of Scholarly and Creative Works for Minnesota State University, Mankato. https://cornerstone.lib.mnsu.edu/etds/1641/
Rights Statement
