Towards person-centred rehabilitation in dementia - a narrative synthesis

Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify and synthesize person-centred principles and components as described in rehabilitation intervention studies which target home dwelling people with mild to moderate dementia. Materials and methods: A narrative synthesis was carried out which included 19 rehabilitation intervention studies targeting people with mild to moderate dementia. The analysis was guided by an initial program theory about person-centredness in rehabilitation, which was developed for this purpose. Results: Person-centred principles and components were identified and synthesised. Person-centred rehabilitation practice in dementia includes: (1) a focus on the needs, preferences and cultural values of the individual and consideration of his/her life history and biography; (2) the cooperation of professionals and people with dementia, including specific tools and methods such as goal-setting, holistic assessment and methods to activate and empower the individual, and building relationships; (3) organisation and structure. Conclusion: Compared to the principles of Kitwood, person-centredness in rehabilitation for people living with dementia also includes goal-setting and empowering principles. There is a need for developing the theoretical and philosophical foundation for person-centredness in rehabilitation in relation to people with dementia.