Physical Activity Measurement in Older Adults with Dementia in Long-term Care Facilities: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Purpose This scoping review systematically identifies methods of measuring physical activity in dementia patients, proposing strategies tailored to individual physical and cognitive statuses. Methods The methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley was adopted, with studies identified via RISS, KISS, ScienceON, PubMed, PsychINFO, and CINAHL. Study with physical activity measurements used for dementia residents in long-term care facilities were selected. Each study was analyzed for publication features, participant characteristics, and measurement techniques. Results Out of the 30 studies reviewed, the majority were descriptive research in gerontology. Subjects, predominantly over 65, had their cognition and physical abilities assessed via the MMSE and Barthel Index, respectively. Physical activities were primarily measured using accelerometers, supplemented by caregiver observations. The choice of physical activity measurement correlated with cognitive function and levels of daily life dependency. Conclusion Although limited by the lack of literature, accelerometers proved effective in measuring physical activity in dementia patients with moderate to severe dependency, while surveys were utilized for those with total dependency. Future research should strive to offer more specific guidelines, ensuring measurement methods are effectively tailored to patients' cognitive and physical capacities.