Education and training interventions for physiotherapists working in dementia care: a scoping review

Abstract

ObjectivesPhysiotherapy plays a key role in many aspects of dementia care, most notably in maintaining mobility. However, there is a lack of dementia care training at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and more importantly, a paucity of evidence as to what constitutes effective dementia education and training for physiotherapists. The aim of this scoping review was to explore and map the evidence, both quantitative and qualitative, relating to education and training for physiotherapists. DesignThis scoping review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. A chronological narrative synthesis of the data outlined how the results relate to the objectives of this study. SettingAll studies, both quantitative and qualitative on dementia education and training conducted in any setting, including acute, community care, residential or any educational setting in any geographical area were included. ParticipantsStudies that included dementia education and training for both qualified and student physiotherapists were considered ResultsA total of 11 papers were included in this review. The principal learning outcomes evaluated were knowledge, confidence, and attitudes. Immediate post- intervention scores showed an improvement in all three outcomes. The Kirkpatrick four level model was used to evaluate the level of outcome achieved. Most educational interventions reached Kirkpatrick level 2, which evaluates learning. A multi-modal approach, with active participation and direct patient involvement seems to enhance learning. ConclusionsAllowing for the heterogeneity of intervention design and evaluation, some common components of educational interventions were identified that led to positive outcomes. This review highlights the need for more robust studies in this area. Further research is needed to develop bespoke dementia curricula specific to physiotherapy. Contributions of the Paper•This review highlights the need for further research to develop bespoke dementia curricula specific to physiotherapy.•Educational interventions need to go beyond evaluating learning and knowledge and measure changes in participants’ behaviour and outcomes for patients.