Game-based interventions and their impact on dementia: a narrative review.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review was to examine the efficacy of game-based interventions for people with dementia.

METHODS

Seven studies that met the inclusion criteria were found in four databases. Their interventions and key findings were analysed and synthesised.

RESULTS

Game-based interventions for people with dementia are showing promise for improving cognition, coordination and behavioural and psychological symptoms. The generalisability of the findings is limited by weak methodology and small sample size.

CONCLUSIONS

Game-based interventions can improve cognition, coordination and behavioural and psychological symptoms for people with dementia. Future research should include methodological improvement and practice guideline development.