Child Representational Therapy in Dementia care
The use of doll therapy as an intervention with adults in aged care who live with dementia has positive aspects and negative aspects. This is mainly because it is seen by families and carers as a juvenile activity. However there are many aspects that are positive- and if implemented correctly can improve the quality of life of a resident who may have 2nd or latter stage dementia. A Booklet put out by the Dementia Behaviour Management advisory service DBMAS Victoria is a good starting point. It briefly covers clinical practice guidelines for the use of doll therapy and guidelines for the use of doll therapy. It is referred to as Child Representational Therapy rather than doll therapy. The booklet emphasises that being an intervention it needs to be carefully monitored. Included are several research studies and reports which are invaluable if a therapist would like to see the pros and cons of this type of intervention.
The book is published by DBMAS advisory Service and is available from their helpline 1800699799 or can be borrowed from your local Alzheimer’s library.