[Outreach dyadic support program for persons with dementia and relatives by dementia nursing experts: qualitative results from a pilot study in rural areas].

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The quality of life of persons with dementia and their relatives crucially depends on whether they succeed in establishing a stable home care situation. In this study, an outreach dyadic support program for persons with dementia and relatives was carried out by dementia nursing experts (DNE) for the first time. The aim of the nurse-led dyadic support program focuses on the lifeworld benefits for dyads and the benefits towards coping with dementia and crisis management in their home environment. Does it turn out to be a suitable offer for dyads in rural areas? Could the program originally developed for therapists be carried out by DNE?

METHODS

Using an interview guideline, 12 episodic interviews were conducted with dyads and additionally two focus groups (n = 5 relatives and n = 2 dementia nursing experts). The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content analysis.

RESULTS

The results of a qualitative evaluation with a multiperspective approach are presented. The participating dyadic benefit depends on several factors, e.g. dyadic relationship, stage of dementia, in different ways. The outreach approach is therefore important. The dyadic setting is mostly seen as helpful, a need for additional one-to-one meetings is desired. The program can be used by DNE, the shift can even be an advantage. It is questionable whether temporary support lasts over the entire course of the disease.

CONCLUSION

The results show that home care situations can be improved for dyads through the nurse-led program, they can even benefit by DNE. The possibility of one-to-one meetings and follow-up care should be given. The outreach approach is crucial for rural areas. The results point to the need for more outreach care for persons with dementia in order to reduce stress and strengthen identity and action resources.