Volunteers motivations and involvement in dementia care in hospitals, aged care and resident homes: An integrative review.

OBJECTIVE

To review the current literature related to the role of volunteers in dementia care in hospitals, aged care and resident homes.

DESIGN

Integrative review method was used to identify and analyse current literature.

METHOD

Data extracted included; author, methodology, sample, aims, data collection and analysis, findings, limitations, and comments. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2011, was used to appraise the quality of the final articles.

DATA SOURCES

Databases searched included CINAHL, Medline, ProQuest Central and PubMed. Keywords and MeSH terms: dementia, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, volunteers, volunteering, voluntary workers, hospital, acute care, aged care, residents.

RESULTS

14 articles reviewed, and three major themes revealed: volunteer motivation, volunteer involvement, and understanding roles. Recommendations to assist with future volunteer programs in dementia care are presented.

CONCLUSION

Volunteer programs are beneficial to patients, family, volunteers, health care, and staff. Research of volunteers' needs, motivations and role required, aiming to improve support and training.