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- Vega-Mendoza, Mariana, et al.
(författare)
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Language Learning for People Living with Dementia and Their Caregivers: Feasibility and the Quality of Experience
- 2024
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Ingår i: Healthcare. - : Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI). - 2227-9032. ; 12:7
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background: A body of research from around the world has reported positive effects of bilingualism on cognitive ageing and dementia. However, little is known about whether foreign language learning could be applied as an intervention for people already living with dementia. Yet, before it is possible to determine the efficacy of language courses as an intervention for people living with dementia (PLWD), it is necessary to establish whether such an intervention is feasible. Our study explored this possibility. Methods: We conducted an exploratory study to examine the feasibility and tolerability of 2-week Italian beginner courses for PLWD in early stages and their family carers in two Scottish Dementia Resource Centres (DRCs). The courses were delivered by trained tutors from Lingo Flamingo, a social enterprise specialising in language teaching for older learners and learners with dementia. Twelve PLWD and seven carers participated in the study. Focus groups preceded and followed the courses. Additional post-course open interviews with the DRC managers were conducted, with a follow-up via telephone approximately one year later. Results: Qualitative content analysis resulted in 12 themes, 5 reflected in the interview schedule and 7 arising from the focus groups and interviews. Overall, the courses were perceived positively by PLWD, carers, and DRC managers, although a few logistically and linguistically challenging aspects were also mentioned. The courses were found to positively impact both the individual by increasing self-esteem and producing a sense of accomplishment as well as the group by creating a sense of community. Notably, no adverse effects (in particular no confusion or frustration) were reported. Conclusion: The positive outcomes of our study open a novel avenue for future research to explore foreign language training in dementia as an intervention and its implications.
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| 2. |
- Vega Mendoza, Mariana, et al.
(författare)
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Language learning for people living with dementia and their carers: A feasibility study
- 2021
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Ingår i: Alzheimer's & Dementia. - : John Wiley & Sons. - 1552-5260 .- 1552-5279. ; 17:S6
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Tidskriftsartikel (refereegranskat)abstract
- Background Converging evidence from across the world suggests positive effects of bilingualism on cognitive ageing and dementia, including a ca. 4-6 years delay in the onset of dementia and’or Mild Cognitive Impairment. However, it is less clear whether language learning can also have a positive effect after the onset of dementia. A positive influence would include psychological and social variables, such as patients’ well-being and their relationship with relatives and carers.Method We examined the feasibility and tolerability of language learning for people in early stages of dementia and their family carers in two Scottish Dementia Day Care Centres. A total of 12 people with dementia and 7 family carers participated in the study. All participants had only limited experience of language learning and none were bi-/multilingual. The 2-week courses of beginners Italian were delivered by specially trained tutors from Lingo Flamingo, a social enterprise specialising in language teaching for older learners and learners with Dementia. Before and after the course, we conducted focus group sessions with learners and their carers as well as interviews with teachers and Day Centre care workers.Results Qualitative analyses revealed a positive perception of the courses by patients, carers, and centre managers, impacting both the individual (e.g., boosting self-esteem) and group (e.g., socialising) levels. No adverse effects (e.g., confusion) were reported. The family carers perceived the courses as empowering, as they allowed them to take an active part. The courses led also to a higher attendance in other activities conducted in the Day Care Centre.Conclusions Despite initial fears from professional carers that being confronted with the task of learning a new language might be stressful and lead to frustration and confusion, all participants reported a highly positive experience of the course, including a higher self-esteem and self-confidence as well as establishment of new social contacts and a more positive attitude to other activities of the day care centre. Further studies will be required to determine the optimal frequency, intensity and duration of language courses for people with dementia as well as the best practice of their delivery.
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