Non-pharmacological interventions in dementia: an overview with special consideration of digital offerings

Abstract

Non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive therapy, physical activity, and creative art approaches are important components of appropriate care for persons with dementia and their relatives. Although relationships and interpersonal interactions undoubtedly play an important role in all these activities, digital technologies have increasingly established themselves in this area in recent years. The following article describes non-pharmacological interventions for people with dementia (based on the German AWMF S3 dementia guideline), and additionally provides examples of selected digital approaches for this particular target group. As the aim of the interventions is to support persons with dementia in living autonomously and maintaining societal and cultural participation, all the interventions share a consideration for individual resources and the promotion of available potential. Empirical evidence on digital activities remains scarce, so it is not yet possible to make clear recommendations. When using them, it should therefore be borne in mind that although they may represent a valuable supplement, they can never replace human attention. Furthermore, limitations in their practical application, such as unfamiliarity when using digital technologies or excessive demands of cognitively limited users, as well as important ethical aspects (e. g., data protections, personality rights, dignity and self-determination in old age) should not be ignored.