94A Scoping Review of the Evidence to Inform the Development of a Model for Dementia Palliative Care

Abstract

Background: Palliative care has been identified internationally as a priority in dementia care. Research into "effective models" of palliative care for people with dementia has been recommended by several European agencies. To build an effective model in the Irish healthcare setting, several strands of evidence must be integrated. The first relies on an understanding of models used in similar settings. The study aim is to identify core components of extant models of palliative care for people with dementia, and their families. Method(s): Model identification through scoping literature search and in-depth evaluation using critical appraisal methods. A search strategy was devised to identify all peer-reviewed research papers relating to our aim, and databases searched included: PubMed, Embase, Cinahl, PsychInfo, Scopus. Inclusion criteria were: Non-pharmacological palliative care interventions; for people with moderate to advanced dementia, of any type; who are living in the community, either at home or in long term care. Result(s): Limited empirical research supporting components of dementia palliative care models in the community exist. There are a number of barriers to conducting good quality research in this field, including complex ethical issues. However, the results of the scoping review suggest that the core areas of an effective palliative care model for people with dementia in the community include: advance care planning, education on the disease process, 24-hour nurse phone support, improved care co-ordination and family support. Conclusion(s): This work builds on existing theory and research using a sound scientific process to ensure that future Models of care in Ireland will be effective, evidence-based, feasible to adopt and acceptable to healthcare workers and potential users. Together with other evidence, this review will inform a new model of dementia palliative care for use in the Irish healthcare system, as part of The Model for Dementia Palliative Care Project.