Narrative review: What is the impact of doll therapy on the occupational engagement of people with dementia?

Abstract

Introduction: The narrative review aims to analyze scientific articles in order to identify the impact of doll therapy on the occupational engagement of people with dementia. Method: The review included 14 analyzed articles, between 2006 and 2021, that approach the benefits of doll therapy and the characterization of the occupational engagement of people with dementia, separately. For this purpose, the following databases were used: Otseeker, Cochrane e Pubmed. Results: The results of this analysis demonstrated that doll therapy reduces anxiety, agitation, depression and stress; increases feelings of happiness, tranquility and pleasure; and improves mood and interaction with others. As for occupational engagement, in people with dementia, there is needs to be an external stimulus to promote opportunities for participation. That said, studies have revealed that the more social interaction that occurs, the more involved people are with the environment. Conclusion: Thus, through a significant activity, such as doll therapy, there is an improvement in the occupational therapy of the people with dementia. However, there are few studies on these themes, so it is suggested that they be carried out to validate the obtained results.