Experiences of People Living with Dementia and their Care Partners in Participating in Outdoor Activities

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThere is increasing evidence for non‐pharmacological interventions to prevent dementia and delay disease progression. Outdoor recreational activities, such as visits to local parks, may help improve behavioural symptoms of dementia, cognition, and quality of life for both people living with dementia (PLWD) and their care partners. However, little is currently known about the experiences of PLWD and care partners about participating in outdoor activities. Understanding their experiences will help inform interventions and policies to promote participation in outdoor activities. Our objectives are to understand the experiences of PLWD and care partners in participating in outdoor activities.MethodsWe conducted semi‐structured interviews with PLWD and care partners, either alone or in dyads. Self‐reported characteristics of PLWD and care partners were recorded by online surveys. Interviews were recorded and transcribed for analysis. Interview questions included questions about the following topics: individuals relationships to outdoor activities; how these relationships may have changed over time; their current patterns of outdoor activities; perceived benefits of outdoor activities; potential risks of outdoor activities; and facilitators and barriers to participating in activities. The transcripts of interviews were coded by two independent members of the research team to identify common themes.ResultA total of 10 participants (7 care partners; 3 PLWD) have participated in interviews to date. Themes identified from interviews include: 1.) Outdoor activities help people maintain a sense of identity and connection with their lives before being diagnosed with dementia; 2.) Both a diagnosis of dementia, stage of dementia, and physical changes associated with aging impact on the types of activities people participate in; 3.) Outdoor activities are associated with psychological benefits for PLWD and care partners; 4.) There are unique considerations for PLWD and care partners that need to be considered when designing outdoor spaces or programs for PLWD.ConclusionOutdoor activities are important to PLWD and care partners and help maintain connections to individuals' identities and are perceived as important to maintaining quality of life. The design of outdoor spaces and activities programs for PLWD and care partners need to incorporate their perspectives to maximize participation and benefits associated with outdoor activities.