Entwicklung einer Programmtheorie als Grundlage für die Evaluation einer Demenzstation

Abstract

Background: An existing dementia special care unit should be evaluated. In order to build a sound foundation of the evaluation a deep theoretical understanding of the implemented intervention is needed, which has not been explicated yet. One possibility to achieve this is the development of a program theory. Aim: The aim is to present a method to develop a program theory for the existing living and care concept of the dementia special care unit, which is used in a larger project to evaluate the concept theory-drivenly. Method: The evaluation is embedded in the framework of van Belle et al. (2010) and an action model and a change model (Chen, 2015) is created. For the specification of the change model the contribution analysis (Mayne, 2011) is applied. Data were collected in workshops with the developers and the nurses of the dementia special care unit and a literature research concerning interventions and outcomes was carried out. The results were synthesized in a consens workshop. Results: The action model describes the interventions of the dementia special care unit, the implementers, the organization and the context. The change model compromises the mechanisms through which interventions achieve outcomes. Conclusions: The results of the program theory can be employed to choose data collection methods and instruments for the evaluation. On the basis of the results of the evaluation the program theory can be refined and adapted.

(How) Do We Theorize?

“…In the context of dementia care, Adlbrecht et al47 presented a program theory of an existing care concept of an Austrian dementia special care unit and reflected on the methodology used for its development. The program theory formed the basis for its theory-based evaluation.…”

“…It consists of an action model, as well as a change model, which explicates the mechanisms through which outcomes are expected to be achieved. 47…”

“…It consists of 5 conceptual building blocks explaining the mechanisms of intervening processes: content, human resources, personalized approach, timing, and setting. 46 In the context of dementia care, Adlbrecht et al 47 presented a program theory of an existing care concept of an Austrian dementia special care unit and reflected on the methodology used for its development. The program theory formed the basis for its theory-based evaluation.…”

Engagement in purposeful activities and social interactions amongst persons with dementia in special care units compared to traditional nursing homes: An observational study

“…In Step 6, all findings are translated into the refined programme theory. For the programme being explored in the current study, the steps 1–3 have already been undertaken [24] and the article reports on a comparative cross‐sectional study with direct resident observations as part of the outcome evaluation. The main outcomes of this care concept yielded by the programme theory are engagement in activities and social interactions.…”

“…Activating, personalised interventions (such as personalised conversations, provision of favourite leisure activities, provision of personally meaningful items) aim to promote social participation and relations, engagement in purposeful activities and feeling well in a place. The overall concept may have an impact on the affective well‐being, displayed in residents’ emotions [24].…”