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Sustaining people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment in employment: a systematic review of qualitative evidence.

McCulloch, Shona; Robertson, David; Kirkpatrick, Pamela

Authors

Shona McCulloch

David Robertson



Abstract

Introduction The World Health Organization estimates that 10% of the 35.6 million people worldwide with dementia are aged under 65 years. In an ageing workforce this has implications for employers, employees, and statutory and third sector services. Limited research has been conducted into this emerging global issue. Method This systematic review, employing the methodology of the Joanna Briggs Institute, aimed to identify and synthesise the best available qualitative evidence regarding the needs, experiences and perspectives of people with early onset dementia or mild cognitive impairment who were either in employment or wished to gain employment. Results Of 69 studies identified, eight met the inclusion criteria. From these, four themes emerged: disease progression and recognition; the emotional impact of change; the employer's management of the worker; and changes to the worker role. Conclusion There are health benefits to the individual with dementia or mild cognitive impairment of continuing to engage in meaningful occupation. Retirement policy changes have resulted in an ageing workforce with concurrent risk factors for dementia. A lack of understanding of reasonable adjustments and sheltered employment opportunities was evident from the literature. This review highlights the potential for occupational therapists to engage this client group in vocational rehabilitation.

Citation

MCCULLOCH, S., ROBERTSON, D. and KIRKPATRICK, P. 2016. Sustaining people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment in employment: a systematic review of qualitative evidence. British journal of occupational therapy [online], 79(11), pages 682-692. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1177/0308022616665402

Journal Article Type Review
Acceptance Date Jul 6, 2016
Online Publication Date Nov 16, 2016
Publication Date Nov 1, 2016
Deposit Date Feb 22, 2018
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal British journal of occupational therapy
Print ISSN 0308-0226
Electronic ISSN 1477-6006
Publisher SAGE Publications
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 79
Issue 11
Pages 682-692
DOI https://doi.org/10.1177/0308022616665402
Keywords Dementia; Cognitive impairment; Vocational rehabilitation
Public URL http://hdl.handle.net/10059/2773

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