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Non-pharmacological interventions for Lewy body dementia: a systematic review.

Published version
Peer-reviewed

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Authors

Connors, Michael H 
Quinto, Lena 
McKeith, Ian 
Brodaty, Henry 
Allan, Louise 

Abstract

Lewy body dementia (consisting of dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia) is a common neurodegenerative disease characterised by visual hallucinations, fluctuating attention, motor disturbances, falls, and sensitivity to antipsychotics. This combination of features presents challenges for pharmacological management. Given this, we sought to review evidence for non-pharmacological interventions with patients with Lewy body dementia and their carers. Bibliographic databases were searched using a wide range of search terms and no restrictions were placed on study design, language, or clinical setting. Two reviewers independently assessed papers for inclusion, rated study quality, and extracted data. The search identified 21 studies including two randomised controlled trials with available subgroup data, seven case series, and 12 case studies. Most studies reported beneficial effects of the interventions used, though the only sizeable study was on dysphagia, showing a benefit of honey-thickened liquids. Given the heterogeneity of interventions and poor quality of the studies overall, no quantitative synthesis was possible. Overall, identified studies suggested possible benefits of non-pharmacological interventions in Lewy body dementia, but the small sample sizes and low quality of studies mean no definite recommendations can be offered. Our findings underscore the clear and urgent need for future research on this topic.

Description

Keywords

Caregiver support, Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's disease dementia, dementia with Lewy bodies, neuropsychiatric symptoms, non-pharmacological, Electric Stimulation Therapy, Exercise Therapy, Humans, Lewy Body Disease, Occupational Therapy, Outcome Assessment, Health Care, Psychotherapy

Journal Title

Psychol Med

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

0033-2917
1469-8978

Volume Title

48

Publisher

Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Sponsorship
National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) (via Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT) (DTC-RP-PG-0311-12001)