A person-centred approach to implementation of psychosocial interventions with people who have an intellectual disability and dementia-A participatory action study

Abstract

Background Numbers of people with an intellectual disability and dementia are increasing with a need to reduce associated stress or agitation. This study aimed to identify effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in social care settings and, uniquely, explore use of photovoice methodology to develop dialogue about dementia. Methods This mixed-method participatory action study used goal-setting theory with 16 participants with intellectual disability and dementia, and 22 social care staff across 11 sites. Five co-researchers with intellectual disability were part of an inclusive research team collecting data using existing and bespoke tools including photovoice. Analysis used descriptive and inferential statistics and framework analysis. Results 74% of individual goals met or exceeded expectations with reduction in some ‘as required’ medication. Qualitative findings include themes of enabling care and interventions as tools for practice. Photovoice provided insight into previously unreported fears about dementia. Conclusions Individualised psychosocial interventions have potential to reduce distress or agitation.