Caregiver Involvement in Dyadic Reminiscence Interventions for Persons With Dementia: A Scoping Review.

Abstract

BackgroundReminiscence improves cognitive functions in persons with dementia (PWD) and strengthens familial relationships. However, the extent of dyadic reminiscence (caregivers' involvement in delivering reminiscence), which impacts how interventions are designed for optimal home delivery, remains poorly mapped.ObjectiveThis scoping review mapped literature regarding dyadic home-based reminiscence interventions.MethodsSix databases were searched for empirical studies. Two independent reviewers conducted screening and data extraction, followed by descriptive content analysis.ResultsThirty studies were included. Caregiver involvement formed a "continuum of engagement" across three broad categories: (i) observers of the PWD, (ii) co-creators of shared materials, and (iii) facilitators of reminiscence-based therapeutic strategies. Key outcomes included quality of life, dyadic relational experience, and PWD neuropsychiatric symptoms.ConclusionCaregivers should be recognised as active partners capable of shaping and enhancing intervention outcomes. Future research should prioritise exploring home-based reminiscence interventions that integrate caregiver participation as a core design element.