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Title of Systematic Narrative
Review
Supporting Individuals with Dementia
in Decision-Making
Abstract
Context:
This review identified and synthesized empirical evidence relating to decisionmaking
support for individuals with dementia (IWD). This topic is worthy of
attention given the rising number of people living with this illness, the emphasis
on service user choice and independence within Northern Ireland and the
recently implemented Mental Capacity Act (2016) which legislates for the
provision of decision-making support.
Methods employed in the review:
Research was identified by searching three electronic databases:
• Social Care Online,
• Social Services Abstracts and
• PsychINFO.
The search terms used related to three concept groups: dementia and
decision-making and support. Each concept was expanded to ensure all key
words were identified.
Two further articles were discovered through citation searching leaving a total
of nineteen studies identified as relevant to the review. Following the
application of quality appraisal and data extraction methods, the review
findings were synthesized using a narrative approach and explored through
seven identified themes: practical strategies; the role of the environment;
supporting communication; the relational nature of support; attitudes and
values; staff training and expertise; and decision-support tools.
Findings:
The evidence suggests that supporting individuals with dementia IWD in
decision-making involves considering their needs and employing strategies to
accommodate these needs in a physical and sensory setting which optimises
decision-making outcomes. The crucial impact of relationships and the values
and attitudes of those interacting with the IWD decision making process is