Publications by category
Journal articles
Wang J, Spencer A, Hulme C, Corbett A, Khan Z, Vasconcelos Da Silva M, O'Dwyer S, Wright N, Testad I, Ballard C, et al (In Press). Healthcare utilisation and physical activities for older adults with comorbidities in the UK during COVID-19. Health and Social Care in the Community
Creese B, Khan Z, Henley W, O'Dwyer S, Corbett A, Vasconcelos Da Silva M, Mills K, Wright N, Testad I, Aarsland D, et al (In Press). Loneliness, physical activity and mental health during Covid-19: a longitudinal analysis of depression and anxiety in adults over 50 between 2015 and 2020.
International Psychogeriatrics Full text.
Bartmess M, Talbot C, O’Dwyer ST, Lopez RP, Rose KM, Anderson JG (2022). Using Twitter to understand perspectives and experiences of dementia and caregiving at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dementia,
21(5), 1734-1752.
Abstract:
Using Twitter to understand perspectives and experiences of dementia and caregiving at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic
the COVID-19 pandemic has placed a tremendous burden on all of society, particularly among vulnerable populations such as people living with dementia and their caregivers. Efforts to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on those living with dementia are crucial towards addressing needs during the pandemic and beyond. This qualitative descriptive study includes a thematic analysis of 6938 tweets from March 17–24, 2020, that included direct or indirect references to COVID-19 and at least one of the following terms/hashtags: Alzheimer, #Alzheimer, dementia, and #dementia. Five themes were identified: continuing care, finding support, preventing spread of COVID-19, maintaining human rights, and the impact of the pandemic on the daily lives of people living with dementia. People living with dementia and their families faced unique challenges related to caregiving, maintaining social connectedness while trying to follow public health guidelines, and navigating the convergence of COVID-19 and dementia-related stigma. Data from Twitter can be an effective means to understand the impacts of public health emergencies among those living with dementia and how to address their needs moving forward by highlighting gaps in practice, services, and research.
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O'Dwyer ST, Janssens A, Sansom A, Biddle L, Mars B, Slater T, Moran P, Stallard P, Melluish J, Reakes L, et al (2021). Suicidality in family caregivers of people with long-term illnesses and disabilities: a scoping review.
Comprehensive Psychiatry,
110, 152261-152261.
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Weetch J, O'Dwyer S, Clare L (2021). The involvement of people with dementia in advocacy: a systematic narrative review.
Aging Ment Health,
25(9), 1595-1604.
Abstract:
The involvement of people with dementia in advocacy: a systematic narrative review.
METHODS: a systematic search and narrative synthesis of original research was conducted. Searches in Pubmed, Web of Science, PsychINFO and CINAHL followed PRISMA Guidelines. The review focused on people with dementia involved in advocacy. There were no restrictions based on study design or date. Language was limited to English. RESULTS: Seven papers were identified, with predominantly qualitative methodologies. Four overarching themes were identified: threats, fighting back, evolving identities and making a difference. Threats ranged from those arising from dementia as an illness, to exposure to stigma. Fighting back represented advocates' response to these threats, often described using martial metaphors. Evolving identities captured advocates' journeys through diagnosis to involvement in advocacy and subsequent impact upon identity. Making a difference represented the impact of dementia advocacy at an individual, community and societal level. CONCLUSIONS: This review confirms that the threats associated with dementia extend beyond the symptoms of illness. Dementia advocacy offers potential improvements in well-being for those involved, through the activity itself and via extended social networks. There is little research on broader aspects of advocates' identity, including ethnicity, gender, and age. There has been little attempt to quantify the impact of dementia advocacy.
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Talbot CV, O’Dwyer ST, Clare L, Heaton J (2021). The use of Twitter by people with young-onset dementia: a qualitative analysis of narratives and identity formation in the age of social media.
Dementia,
20(7), 2542-2557.
Abstract:
The use of Twitter by people with young-onset dementia: a qualitative analysis of narratives and identity formation in the age of social media
a diagnosis of dementia in midlife can be challenging, causing losses or changes in a person’s identity. Narrative provides a means of reconstructing identity and can be communicated on social media. There has been initial evidence on the value of Twitter for people with dementia, but researchers have not yet directly engaged with users’ perspectives. We employed a narrative model of identity to examine why people with dementia use Twitter and what challenges they face. Interviews were conducted with 11 younger people with dementia and analysed thematically. Participants used Twitter to counter a loss of identity through community membership and by regaining a sense of purpose. They sought to redefine dementia identities by challenging stigma and campaigning for social change. The character limit of tweets facilitated narrative through which participants preserved their identities. These findings suggest that Twitter could be an important source of post-diagnostic support for people with young-onset dementia. However, there are some risks as Twitter was sometimes a hostile environment for individuals who did not present in a ‘typical’ manner, or faced technical difficulties because of their symptoms. In the future, platform developers could work with people with dementia to make Twitter more accessible for this group.
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Talbot CV, O'Dwyer ST, Clare L, Heaton J, Anderson J (2020). How people with dementia use twitter: a qualitative analysis.
Computers in Human Behavior,
102, 112-119.
Abstract:
How people with dementia use twitter: a qualitative analysis
People with dementia are publicly sharing their experiences of living with the condition and acting collectively to produce social change. Social media could support them in doing this, but no previous studies have comprehensively analysed their use of Twitter. The aims of this study were to identify how people with dementia use Twitter and examine the illness identities they create and promote online. Tweetcatcher was used to collect 2774 tweets posted over six months by 12 account holders with dementia, across three countries. Tweets were analysed thematically. Six themes were identified through the analysis: nothing about us without us, collective action, experts by experience, living with dementia not suffering from it, community, and stories of dementia. On Twitter, people with dementia are developing a collective illness identity to further a social movement that is focused on improving the lives of people with dementia. They are also communicating their personal identities by documenting their lived experiences. Twitter is being used to convey positive, rather than negative, messages about dementia. The findings of this study also show that thematic analysis can be applied to micro texts that can combine over time to form longer narratives.
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Talbot C, O'Dwyer S, Clare L, Heaton J, Anderson J (2020). Identifying people with dementia on Twitter.
Dementia (London),
19(4), 965-974.
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Kovalenko AG, Abraham C, Graham-Rowe E, Levine M, O’Dwyer S (2020). What Works in Violence Prevention Among Young People?: a Systematic Review of Reviews.
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 152483802093913-152483802093913.
Abstract:
What Works in Violence Prevention Among Young People?: a Systematic Review of Reviews
Violence prevention programs aim to raise awareness, change attitudes, normative beliefs, motivation, and behavioral responses. Many programs have been developed and evaluated, and optimistic claims about effectiveness made. Yet comprehensive guidance on program design, implementation, and evaluation is limited. The aim of this study was to provide an up-to-date review of evidence on what works for whom. A systematic search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, ERIC, and Sociology Collection ProQuest identified 40 reviews and meta-analyses reporting on the effectiveness of violence prevention programs among young people (age 15–30) in educational institutions, published before October 2018. These included reviews of programs designed to reduce (i) bullying, (ii) dating and relationship violence, (iii) sexual assault, and (iv) antisocial behavior. Only evaluations that reported on behavioral outcomes such as perpetration, victimization, and bystander behavior were included. The reviewed evaluations reported on programs that were mainly implemented in high-income countries in Europe and North America. The majority found small effects on violence reduction and victimization and increases in self-reported bystander behavior. Our findings expose critical gaps in evaluation research in this area and provide recommendations on how to optimize the effectiveness of future programs.
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Anderson JG, Eppes A, O'Dwyer ST (2019). "Like Death is Near": Expressions of Suicidal and Homicidal Ideation in the Blog Posts of Family Caregivers of People with Dementia.
Behav Sci (Basel),
9(3).
Abstract:
"Like Death is Near": Expressions of Suicidal and Homicidal Ideation in the Blog Posts of Family Caregivers of People with Dementia.
BACKGROUND: the challenges of providing care for someone with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) have been associated with increased stress, poor mental and physical health, social isolation, and financial distress. More recently, caregiving has been associated with high rates of suicidal and homicidal ideation, but the research on these phenomena is limited. The present study analyzed a sample of blogs written by family caregivers of people with ADRD to explore thoughts of suicide and homicide expressed by these caregivers. METHODS: Blogs written by self-identified informal caregivers of people with ADRD were identified using a systematic search method and data were analyzed using a qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS: Five themes related to thoughts of suicide and homicide by caregivers and people with ADRD were derived from the analysis: (1) end-of-life care; (2) thoughts of death and euthanasia by the person with ADRD; (3) surrogate decision making; (4) thoughts of suicide by the caregiver; and (5) thoughts of homicide and euthanasia by the caregiver. CONCLUSIONS: the results capture the reality of suicidal and homicidal thoughts among family caregivers of people with ADRD, supporting calls for more research on these complex topics and highlighting the need for changes to clinical practice to prevent thoughts from becoming behaviors or actions.
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Anonymous Members of the Peninsula Public Involvement Group, Liabo K, O'Dwyer S (2019). Research Commentary: a Carer's Roadmap for Research, Practice, and Policy on Suicide, Homicide, and Self-Harm.
Behav Sci (Basel),
9(5).
Abstract:
Research Commentary: a Carer's Roadmap for Research, Practice, and Policy on Suicide, Homicide, and Self-Harm.
Academic researchers are increasingly asked to engage with the wider world, both in terms of creating impact from their work, and in telling the world what goes on in university research departments. An aspect of this engagement involves working with patients, carers or members of the public as partners in research. This means working with them to identify important research questions and designing studies to address those questions. This commentary was jointly written by two researchers and people with relevant caring experience for this special issue. It brings to the forefront the concerns of carers who are also involved in research as partners. The aim is to highlight their perspectives to inform future research, policy, and practice.
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Joling KJ, ten Have M, de Graaf R, O’Dwyer ST (2019). Risk factors for suicidal thoughts in informal caregivers: results from the population-based Netherlands mental health survey and incidence Study-2 (NEMESIS-2).
BMC Psychiatry,
19(1).
Abstract:
Risk factors for suicidal thoughts in informal caregivers: results from the population-based Netherlands mental health survey and incidence Study-2 (NEMESIS-2)
Abstract
.
. Background
. Previous research suggests that family caregivers contemplate suicide at a higher rate than the general population. Much of this research has been disease specific and in relatively small samples. This study aimed to compare suicidal thoughts between non-caregivers and informal caregivers of people with a variety of conditions, in a large representative sample, and to identify significant risk factors.
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. Methods
. The general population study NEMESIS-2 (N at baseline = 6646) included 1582 adult caregivers at the second wave (2010–2012) who also participated at the third wave (2013–2015). Suicidal thoughts were assessed over 4 years, with the Suicidality Module of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0. The presence of suicidal thoughts was estimated and risk factors for suicidal thoughts were assessed with logistic regression analyses adjusted for age and gender.
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. Results
. Thirty-six informal caregivers (2.9%) reported suicidal thoughts during the 4 year study period. The difference between caregivers and non-caregivers (3.0%) was not significant. Among caregivers, significant risk factors for suicidal thoughts included being unemployed, living without a partner, having lower levels of social support, having a chronic physical disorder, a mood disorder or an anxiety disorder, and having impaired social, physical and emotional functioning. These risk factors were also found in non-caregivers. No caregiving-related characteristics were associated with suicidal thoughts.
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. Conclusion
. There was no elevated rate of suicidal thoughts in caregivers and risk factors for suicidal thoughts in caregivers were consistent with risk factors in non-caregivers. No association between caregiving characteristics and suicidal thoughts was found. Caregivers with limited resources and in poorer health might still benefit from prevention and intervention efforts.
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Moyle W, Jones C, Murfield J, Thalib L, Beattie E, Shum D, O'Dwyer S, Mervin MC, Draper B (2018). Effect of a robotic seal on the motor activity and sleep patterns of older people with dementia, as measured by wearable technology: a cluster-randomised controlled trial.
Maturitas,
110, 10-17.
Abstract:
Effect of a robotic seal on the motor activity and sleep patterns of older people with dementia, as measured by wearable technology: a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Objectives: the robotic seal, PARO, has been used as an alternative to animal-assisted therapies with residents with dementia in long-term care, yet understanding of its efficacy is limited by a paucity of research. We explored the effects of PARO on motor activity and sleep patterns, as measured by a wearable triaxial accelerometer. Study design: Cluster-randomised controlled trial, involving 28 facilities in Queensland, Australia. Nine facilities were randomised to the PARO group (individual, non-facilitated, 15-min sessions three afternoons per week for 10 weeks), 10 to a plush toy (PARO with robotic features disabled) and nine to usual care. Main outcome measures: Changes in day- and nighttime motor activity and sleep after the 10-week intervention, as measured by SenseWear® armbands, worn by participants continuously for 24 h at baseline, during two single intervention days in weeks 5 and 10 respectively, and post-intervention (week 15). Analyses followed intention-to-treat, using repeated-measures mixed-effects models. Results: After 10 weeks, the PARO group showed a greater reduction in daytime step count than usual care (p = 0.023), and in nighttime step count (p = 0.028) and daytime physical activity (p = 0.026) compared with the plush toy group. At post-intervention, the PARO group showed a greater reduction in daytime step count than the plush toy group (p = 0.028), and at nighttime compared with both the plush toy group (p = 0.019) and the usual-care group (p = 0.046). The PARO group also had a greater reduction in nighttime physical activity than the usual-care group (p = 0.015). Conclusions: PARO may have some effect on motor activity of older people with dementia in long-term care, but not on sleep patterns. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000508673).
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O'Dwyer ST, Pinto S, McDonough S (2018). Self-care for academics: a poetic invitation to reflect and resist. Reflective Practice
Mervin MC, Moyle W, Jones C, Murfield J, Draper B, Beattie E, Shum DHK, O'Dwyer S, Thalib L (2018). The Cost-Effectiveness of Using PARO, a Therapeutic Robotic Seal, to Reduce Agitation and Medication Use in Dementia: Findings from a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
J Am Med Dir Assoc,
19(7), 619-622.e1.
Abstract:
The Cost-Effectiveness of Using PARO, a Therapeutic Robotic Seal, to Reduce Agitation and Medication Use in Dementia: Findings from a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
OBJECTIVES: to examine the within-trial costs and cost-effectiveness of using PARO, compared with a plush toy and usual care, for reducing agitation and medication use in people with dementia in long-term care. DESIGN: an economic evaluation, nested within a cluster-randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Twenty-eight facilities in South-East Queensland, Australia. PARTICIPANTS: a total of 415 residents, all aged 60 years or older, with documented diagnoses of dementia. INTERVENTION: Facilities were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: PARO (individual, nonfacilitated 15-minute sessions, 3 afternoons per week for 10 weeks); plush toy (as per PARO but with artificial intelligence disabled); and usual care. MEASUREMENTS: the incremental cost per Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory-Short Form (CMAI-SF) point averted from a provider's perspective. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (BLINDED FOR REVIEW). RESULTS: for the within-trial costs, the PARO group was $50.47 more expensive per resident compared with usual care, whereas the plush toy group was $37.26 more expensive than usual care. There were no statistically significant between-group differences in agitation levels after the 10-week intervention. The point estimates of the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were $13.01 for PARO and $12.85 for plush toy per CMAI-SF point averted relative to usual care. CONCLUSION: the plush toy used in this study offered marginally greater value for money than PARO in improving agitation. However, these costs are much lower than values estimated for psychosocial group activities and sensory interventions, suggesting that both a plush toy and the PARO are cost-effective psychosocial treatment options for agitation.
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O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Taylor T, Creese J, Zimmer-Gembeck M (2017). In Their Own Words: How Family Carers of People with Dementia Understand Resilience.
Behav Sci (Basel),
7(3).
Abstract:
In Their Own Words: How Family Carers of People with Dementia Understand Resilience.
There is a growing body of research on resilience in family carers of people with dementia, but carers' voices are noticeably absent from it. The aim of this study was to explore carers' definitions of resilience and their opinions on the factors associated with resilience. Twenty-one in-depth interviews were conducted in Australia with people who were currently, or had previously been, caring for a family member with dementia. Transcripts were analysed thematically and three themes emerged: the presence of resilience, the path to resilience, and characteristics of the resilient carer. Although carers struggled to define resilience, the vast majority considered themselves resilient. Carers identified a range of traits, values, environments, resources, and behaviours associated with resilience, but there was no consensus on the relative importance or causal nature of these factors. Carers also considered resilience to be domain- and context-specific, but did not agree on whether resilience was a trait or a process. These findings highlight both the importance of including carers' voices in resilience research and the limitations of the extant literature. There is much to be done to develop a field of carer resilience research that is theoretically sound, methodologically rigorous, and reflects the lived experience of carers. A model is provided to prompt future research.
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Moyle W, Jones C, Murfield J, Draper B, Beattie E, Shum D, Thalib L, O'Dwyer S, Mervin CM (2017). Levels of physical activity and sleep patterns among older people with dementia living in long-term care facilities: a 24-h snapshot.
Maturitas,
102, 62-68.
Abstract:
Levels of physical activity and sleep patterns among older people with dementia living in long-term care facilities: a 24-h snapshot
Objectives to objectively measure over a 24-h period the daytime and nighttime levels of physical activity and sleep patterns of older people with dementia living in long-term care facilities. Study design Nested within a larger research program, this cross-sectional study involved 415 residents, aged ≥60 years, with a documented diagnosis of dementia, from 28 long-term care facilities in south-east Queensland, Australia. Main outcome measures Residents wore SenseWear® activity armbands continuously for 24 h, with data recorded for: step count; total energy expenditure; metabolic equivalent of task (MET); and the amount of time spent physically active, lying down, awake, and asleep. Residents’ levels of cognitive impairment (assessed using the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale) and agitation (assessed using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory-Short Form), and demographic data were also collected. Results from a total of 415 residents monitored with the SenseWear® activity armbands, 192 met the valid wear-time of 21 h or more, and had activity and sleep data recorded. These residents were largely inactive during the daytime (engaged in an average of 1.8 h of light physical activity), but achieved recommended amounts of sleep at night (average of 6.8 h). There was considerable variation within the sample, and activity and sleep differed by sex (p
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Moyle W, El Saifi N, Draper B, Jones C, Beattie E, Shum D, Thalib L, Mervin C, O’Dwyer S (2017). Pharmacotherapy of Persons with Dementia in Long-term Care in Australia: a Descriptive Audit of Central Nervous System Medications. Current Drug Safety, 12(2).
Kang Y, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S (2017). Qualitative evaluation of a delirium prevention and management programme.
J Clin Nurs,
26(23-24), 4574-4582.
Abstract:
Qualitative evaluation of a delirium prevention and management programme.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the effect of an educational programme on registered nurses' knowledge and attitude in delirium care for hospitalised older adults with and without dementia, and to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the programme from the participants' perspectives. BACKGROUND: Providing care for patients with delirium or delirium superimposed on dementia often poses particular challenges such as distinguishing between delirium and dementia for nurses. DESIGN: a descriptive qualitative study was used. METHODS: a delirium educational programme based on adult learning principles was provided to the participants. A purposive sample of 12 registered nurses who participated in the educational programme undertook individual interviews. Content analysis was conducted to identify unique and common themes indicative of registered nurse perceptions. RESULTS: Registered nurses reported improved knowledge and attitude towards the delirium care of hospitalised older adults with dementia and at risk of delirium. Active learning in the programme facilitated the participants' learning processes. This active learning included deep learning, collaborative learning and application of new concepts to practice. Most participants felt that they had inadequate management support to apply their new knowledge in practice, and this included staff resource and policies and protocols. CONCLUSION: the qualitative findings indicated that the delirium education had benefited the participants by improving their knowledge and attitude towards the delirium care of hospitalised older adults with dementia and at risk of delirium. This study provided an understanding of the strengths and limitations of the educational programme delivered to registered nurses in South Korea. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Registered nurses in South Korea should need not only appropriate education, but also adequate resources, policies and guidelines as well as support from managers and from all other healthcare professionals.
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Cash T, Moyle W, O'Dwyer S (2017). Relationships in consumer-directed care: an integrative literature review.
Australas J Ageing,
36(3), 193-204.
Abstract:
Relationships in consumer-directed care: an integrative literature review.
OBJECTIVE: to undertake an integrative review of the literature on relationships between community aged care recipients, family carers and care providers under consumer-directed care (CDC). METHODS: Seven databases were systematically searched. Peer-reviewed and grey literature on CDC between 1998 and 2014 were assessed using an integrative literature review (ILR) framework. Search terms included CDC, self-directed care, direct payments, community aged care, community dwelling and older adults. Full-text copies were assessed against the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. This ILR found no research with a specific focus on caregiving relationships for older adults. The literature did however identify relational issues such as support, planning and provider attitude as fundamental to the success of CDC. CONCLUSION: Relationships within the caregiving triad have important implications for the way CDC is enacted, particularly when the care recipient has dementia, suggesting this population as a priority for future research.
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Kang Y, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S (2017). South Korean Family Caregiver Involvement in Delirium Care: a Qualitative Descriptive Study. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43(12), 44-51.
Joling KJ, O'Dwyer ST, Hertogh CMPM, van Hout HPJ (2017). The occurrence and persistence of thoughts of suicide, self-harm and death in family caregivers of people with dementia: a longitudinal data analysis over 2 years. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 33(2), 263-270.
Moyle W, Jones CJ, Murfield JE, Thalib L, Beattie ERA, Shum DKH, O'Dwyer ST, Mervin MC, Draper BM (2017). Use of a Robotic Seal as a Therapeutic Tool to Improve Dementia Symptoms: a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of the American Medical Directors Association,
18(9), 766-773.
Abstract:
Use of a Robotic Seal as a Therapeutic Tool to Improve Dementia Symptoms: a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Objectives to test the effects of individual, nonfacilitated sessions with PARO (version 9), when compared against a look-alike plush toy and usual care, on the emotional and behavioral symptoms of dementia for people living in long-term care facilities. Design Parallel, 3-group, cluster-randomized controlled trial conducted between June 14, 2014, and May 16, 2015. Setting Twenty-eight long-term care facilities operated by 20 care organizations located in South-East Queensland, Australia. Participants Four hundred fifteen participants aged ≥60 years, with a documented diagnosis of dementia. Intervention Stratified by private/not-for-profit status and randomized using a computer-generated sequence, 9 facilities were randomized to the PARO group (individual, nonfacilitated, 15-minute sessions 3 times per week for 10 weeks); 10 to plush toy (same, but given PARO with robotic features disabled); and 9 to usual care. Treatment allocation was masked to assessors. Measurements Primary outcomes were changes in levels of engagement, mood states, and agitation after a 10-week intervention, assessed by coded video observations (baseline, weeks 1, 5, 10, and 15) and Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory–Short Form (baseline, weeks 10 and 15). Analyses followed intention-to-treat, using repeated measures mixed effects models. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000508673). Results Video data showed that participants in the PARO group were more verbally [3.61, 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.40–0.81, P =.011] and visually engaged (13.06, 95% CI: 17.05–9.06, P
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Kang Y, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer ST (2016). An educational programme to improve acute care nurses' knowledge, attitudes and family caregiver involvement in care of people with cognitive impairment. Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, 31(3), 631-640.
Petriwskyj A, Parker D, O’Dwyer S, Moyle W, Nucifora N (2016). Interventions to build resilience in family caregivers of people living with dementia. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, 14(6), 238-273.
Nović A, Kõlves K, O’Dwyer S, Leo DD (2016). Migraine and Suicidal Behaviors. The Clinical Journal of Pain, 32(4), 351-364.
Moyle W, Beattie E, Draper B, Shum D, Thalib L, Jones C, O'Dwyer S, Mervin C (2015). Effect of an interactive therapeutic robotic animal on engagement, mood states, agitation and psychotropic drug use in people with dementia: a cluster-randomised controlled trial protocol: Table 1. BMJ Open, 5(8), e009097-e009097.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Taylor T, Creese J, Zimmer-Gembeck MJ (2015). Homicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia. Aging & Mental Health, 20(11), 1174-1181.
Petriwskyj A, Parker D, OʼDwyer S, Moyle W, Nucifora N (2015). Interventions to build resilience in family carers of people living with dementia: a systematic review protocol. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, 13(7), 44-61.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Zimmer-Gembeck M, De Leo D (2015). Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia. Aging & Mental Health, 20(2), 222-230.
Moyle W, Jones C, Sung B, Bramble M, O’Dwyer S, Blumenstein M, Estivill-Castro V (2015). What Effect Does an Animal Robot Called CuDDler Have on the Engagement and Emotional Response of Older People with Dementia? a Pilot Feasibility Study. International Journal of Social Robotics, 8(1), 145-156.
Moyle W, Jones C, Cooke M, O’Dwyer S, Sung B, Drummond S (2014). Connecting the person with dementia and family: a feasibility study of a telepresence robot. BMC Geriatrics, 14(1).
O’Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Pachana NA, Sung B, Barrett S (2014). Feeling that life is not worth living (death thoughts) among middle-aged, Australian women providing unpaid care. Maturitas, 77(4), 375-379.
Moyle W, Cooke ML, Beattie E, Shum DHK, O'Dwyer ST, Barrett S, Sung B (2014). Foot Massage and Physiological Stress in People with Dementia: a Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 20(4), 305-311.
Moyle W, Cooke ML, Beattie E, Shum DHK, O’Dwyer ST, Barrett S (2014). Foot massage versus quiet presence on agitation and mood in people with dementia: a randomised controlled trial. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 51(6), 856-864.
Sritoomma N, Moyle W, Cooke M, O’Dwyer S (2014). The effectiveness of Swedish massage with aromatic ginger oil in treating chronic low back pain in older adults: a randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 22(1), 26-33.
O'Dwyer S, Moyle W, van Wyk S (2013). Suicidal ideation and resilience in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot qualitative study. Aging & Mental Health, 17(6), 753-760.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Zimmer-Gembeck M, De Leo D (2013). Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, n/a-n/a.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Zimmer-Gembeck M, De Leo D (2013). Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study.
International journal of geriatric psychiatry,
28(11), 1182-1188.
Abstract:
Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study.
The objective of this pilot study was to gather preliminary evidence on suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia. An online, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 120 family carers, the majority of whom were located in Australia and USA. The survey included measures of suicidality, self-efficacy, physical health, depression, hopelessness, anxiety, optimism, caregiver burden, coping strategies and social support. Twenty-six percent of carers had contemplated suicide more than once in the previous year. Only half of these had ever told someone they might commit suicide and almost 30% said they were likely to attempt suicide in the future. Carers who had contemplated suicide had poorer mental health, lower self-efficacy for community support service use and greater use of dysfunctional coping strategies than those who had not. In a logistic regression, only depression predicted the presence of suicidal thoughts. A significant number of people might contemplate suicide while caring for a family member with dementia. Although more research is required to confirm this finding, there are clear implications for policy and clinical practice in terms of identifying and supporting carers who are already contemplating suicide. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Moyle W, Cooke M, O’Dwyer ST, Murfield J, Johnston A, Sung B (2013). The effect of foot massage on long-term care staff working with older people with dementia: a pilot, parallel group, randomized controlled trial. BMC Nursing, 12(1).
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W (2013). Using Google Adwords to recruit family carers of people with dementia. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 33(2), 128-131.
Moyle W, O’Dwyer S (2012). Quality of life in people living with dementia in nursing homes. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 25(6), 480-484.
Vaughan S, Morris N, Shum D, O’Dwyer S, Polit D (2012). Study protocol: a randomised controlled trial of the effects of a multi-modal exercise program on cognition and physical functioning in older women. BMC Geriatrics, 12(1).
Moyle W, Murfield JE, O’Dwyer S, Van Wyk S (2012). The effect of massage on agitated behaviours in older people with dementia: a literature review. Journal of Clinical Nursing, no-no.
Netchanok S, Wendy M, Marie C, Siobhan O (2012). The effectiveness of Swedish massage and traditional Thai massage in treating chronic low back pain: a review of the literature. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 18(4), 227-234.
Moyle W, Johnston ANB, O'Dwyer ST (2011). Exploring the effect of foot massage on agitated behaviours in older people with dementia: a pilot study. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 30(3), 159-161.
O'Dwyer ST, Burton NW, Pachana NA, Brown WJ (2007). Protocol for Fit Bodies, Fine Minds: a randomized controlled trial on the affect of exercise and cognitive training on cognitive functioning in older adults. BMC Geriatrics, 7(1).
Chapters
O'Dwyer ST, De Leo D (2016). Older adults and suicide. In Wasserman D (Ed)
Suicide an Unnecessary Death, Oxford University Press.
Abstract:
Older adults and suicide
Abstract.
O'Dwyer ST, McDonough S, Jefferson R, Goff J, Redman-MacLaren M (2016). Writing groups in the digital age: a case study analysis of Shut up & Write Tuesdays. In Esposito A (Ed) Research 2.0 and the impact of digital technologies on scholarly inquiry, Pennsylvania, USA: IGI Global.
Conferences
Moyle W, Jones C, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S, Sung B, Drummond S (2013). Social robots helping people with dementia: Assessing efficacy of social robots in the nursing home environment.
Abstract:
Social robots helping people with dementia: Assessing efficacy of social robots in the nursing home environment
Abstract.
Publications by year
In Press
Wang J, Spencer A, Hulme C, Corbett A, Khan Z, Vasconcelos Da Silva M, O'Dwyer S, Wright N, Testad I, Ballard C, et al (In Press). Healthcare utilisation and physical activities for older adults with comorbidities in the UK during COVID-19. Health and Social Care in the Community
Creese B, Khan Z, Henley W, O'Dwyer S, Corbett A, Vasconcelos Da Silva M, Mills K, Wright N, Testad I, Aarsland D, et al (In Press). Loneliness, physical activity and mental health during Covid-19: a longitudinal analysis of depression and anxiety in adults over 50 between 2015 and 2020.
International Psychogeriatrics Full text.
2022
Bartmess M, Talbot C, O’Dwyer ST, Lopez RP, Rose KM, Anderson JG (2022). Using Twitter to understand perspectives and experiences of dementia and caregiving at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dementia,
21(5), 1734-1752.
Abstract:
Using Twitter to understand perspectives and experiences of dementia and caregiving at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic
the COVID-19 pandemic has placed a tremendous burden on all of society, particularly among vulnerable populations such as people living with dementia and their caregivers. Efforts to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on those living with dementia are crucial towards addressing needs during the pandemic and beyond. This qualitative descriptive study includes a thematic analysis of 6938 tweets from March 17–24, 2020, that included direct or indirect references to COVID-19 and at least one of the following terms/hashtags: Alzheimer, #Alzheimer, dementia, and #dementia. Five themes were identified: continuing care, finding support, preventing spread of COVID-19, maintaining human rights, and the impact of the pandemic on the daily lives of people living with dementia. People living with dementia and their families faced unique challenges related to caregiving, maintaining social connectedness while trying to follow public health guidelines, and navigating the convergence of COVID-19 and dementia-related stigma. Data from Twitter can be an effective means to understand the impacts of public health emergencies among those living with dementia and how to address their needs moving forward by highlighting gaps in practice, services, and research.
Abstract.
2021
O'Dwyer ST, Janssens A, Sansom A, Biddle L, Mars B, Slater T, Moran P, Stallard P, Melluish J, Reakes L, et al (2021). Suicidality in family caregivers of people with long-term illnesses and disabilities: a scoping review.
Comprehensive Psychiatry,
110, 152261-152261.
Full text.
Weetch J, O'Dwyer S, Clare L (2021). The involvement of people with dementia in advocacy: a systematic narrative review.
Aging Ment Health,
25(9), 1595-1604.
Abstract:
The involvement of people with dementia in advocacy: a systematic narrative review.
METHODS: a systematic search and narrative synthesis of original research was conducted. Searches in Pubmed, Web of Science, PsychINFO and CINAHL followed PRISMA Guidelines. The review focused on people with dementia involved in advocacy. There were no restrictions based on study design or date. Language was limited to English. RESULTS: Seven papers were identified, with predominantly qualitative methodologies. Four overarching themes were identified: threats, fighting back, evolving identities and making a difference. Threats ranged from those arising from dementia as an illness, to exposure to stigma. Fighting back represented advocates' response to these threats, often described using martial metaphors. Evolving identities captured advocates' journeys through diagnosis to involvement in advocacy and subsequent impact upon identity. Making a difference represented the impact of dementia advocacy at an individual, community and societal level. CONCLUSIONS: This review confirms that the threats associated with dementia extend beyond the symptoms of illness. Dementia advocacy offers potential improvements in well-being for those involved, through the activity itself and via extended social networks. There is little research on broader aspects of advocates' identity, including ethnicity, gender, and age. There has been little attempt to quantify the impact of dementia advocacy.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Full text.
Talbot CV, O’Dwyer ST, Clare L, Heaton J (2021). The use of Twitter by people with young-onset dementia: a qualitative analysis of narratives and identity formation in the age of social media.
Dementia,
20(7), 2542-2557.
Abstract:
The use of Twitter by people with young-onset dementia: a qualitative analysis of narratives and identity formation in the age of social media
a diagnosis of dementia in midlife can be challenging, causing losses or changes in a person’s identity. Narrative provides a means of reconstructing identity and can be communicated on social media. There has been initial evidence on the value of Twitter for people with dementia, but researchers have not yet directly engaged with users’ perspectives. We employed a narrative model of identity to examine why people with dementia use Twitter and what challenges they face. Interviews were conducted with 11 younger people with dementia and analysed thematically. Participants used Twitter to counter a loss of identity through community membership and by regaining a sense of purpose. They sought to redefine dementia identities by challenging stigma and campaigning for social change. The character limit of tweets facilitated narrative through which participants preserved their identities. These findings suggest that Twitter could be an important source of post-diagnostic support for people with young-onset dementia. However, there are some risks as Twitter was sometimes a hostile environment for individuals who did not present in a ‘typical’ manner, or faced technical difficulties because of their symptoms. In the future, platform developers could work with people with dementia to make Twitter more accessible for this group.
Abstract.
Full text.
2020
Talbot C (2020). Dementia, Identity, and the Role of Twitter.
Abstract:
Dementia, Identity, and the Role of Twitter
The narratives of people with dementia have traditionally been underrepresented in research, policy, and public life. The social networking site Twitter has the potential to affect the lived experiences of people with dementia and facilitate their social inclusion, but research is limited. The overarching aim of this thesis was to explore how and why people with dementia use Twitter. Study One was a content analysis of the profile descriptions of account holders who identified themselves as having dementia. The aims were to identify how many Twitter account holders identified themselves as having dementia, and to examine their characteristics. Study Two was a thematic analysis of the tweets of people with dementia. The aims were to explore how they used Twitter and to examine the illness narratives they created and promoted online. Study Three comprised thematic and longitudinal analyses of case studies of people with dementia. The aims were to examine, in their own words, how and why people with dementia used Twitter, and to explore how this changed over time. The findings of this thesis showed that people with dementia used Twitter to present themselves and their diagnosis in a positive manner. People with dementia used Twitter to have a voice on the issues that affect them, create social change, educate others, establish new social connections, expand existing offline social networks, access peer support, document experiences, communicate, and enhance feelings of self-worth. While the use of Twitter by people with dementia was largely positive, they also experienced technical difficulties, were vulnerable to online abuse, and found the platform increasingly difficult to use as the symptoms of dementia progressed. At present, Twitter might only be appropriate for people in the earlier stages of dementia. In the future, researchers could work with platform developers to make Twitter more dementia-friendly, develop guidelines for people with dementia on how to use and be safe on Twitter, and use longer timeframes to further examine how the use of Twitter by people with dementia changes as symptoms progress.
Abstract.
Full text.
Talbot CV, O'Dwyer ST, Clare L, Heaton J, Anderson J (2020). How people with dementia use twitter: a qualitative analysis.
Computers in Human Behavior,
102, 112-119.
Abstract:
How people with dementia use twitter: a qualitative analysis
People with dementia are publicly sharing their experiences of living with the condition and acting collectively to produce social change. Social media could support them in doing this, but no previous studies have comprehensively analysed their use of Twitter. The aims of this study were to identify how people with dementia use Twitter and examine the illness identities they create and promote online. Tweetcatcher was used to collect 2774 tweets posted over six months by 12 account holders with dementia, across three countries. Tweets were analysed thematically. Six themes were identified through the analysis: nothing about us without us, collective action, experts by experience, living with dementia not suffering from it, community, and stories of dementia. On Twitter, people with dementia are developing a collective illness identity to further a social movement that is focused on improving the lives of people with dementia. They are also communicating their personal identities by documenting their lived experiences. Twitter is being used to convey positive, rather than negative, messages about dementia. The findings of this study also show that thematic analysis can be applied to micro texts that can combine over time to form longer narratives.
Abstract.
Full text.
Talbot C, O'Dwyer S, Clare L, Heaton J, Anderson J (2020). Identifying people with dementia on Twitter.
Dementia (London),
19(4), 965-974.
Author URL.
Full text.
Kovalenko AG, Abraham C, Graham-Rowe E, Levine M, O’Dwyer S (2020). What Works in Violence Prevention Among Young People?: a Systematic Review of Reviews.
Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 152483802093913-152483802093913.
Abstract:
What Works in Violence Prevention Among Young People?: a Systematic Review of Reviews
Violence prevention programs aim to raise awareness, change attitudes, normative beliefs, motivation, and behavioral responses. Many programs have been developed and evaluated, and optimistic claims about effectiveness made. Yet comprehensive guidance on program design, implementation, and evaluation is limited. The aim of this study was to provide an up-to-date review of evidence on what works for whom. A systematic search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, ERIC, and Sociology Collection ProQuest identified 40 reviews and meta-analyses reporting on the effectiveness of violence prevention programs among young people (age 15–30) in educational institutions, published before October 2018. These included reviews of programs designed to reduce (i) bullying, (ii) dating and relationship violence, (iii) sexual assault, and (iv) antisocial behavior. Only evaluations that reported on behavioral outcomes such as perpetration, victimization, and bystander behavior were included. The reviewed evaluations reported on programs that were mainly implemented in high-income countries in Europe and North America. The majority found small effects on violence reduction and victimization and increases in self-reported bystander behavior. Our findings expose critical gaps in evaluation research in this area and provide recommendations on how to optimize the effectiveness of future programs.
Abstract.
Full text.
2019
Anderson JG, Eppes A, O'Dwyer ST (2019). "Like Death is Near": Expressions of Suicidal and Homicidal Ideation in the Blog Posts of Family Caregivers of People with Dementia.
Behav Sci (Basel),
9(3).
Abstract:
"Like Death is Near": Expressions of Suicidal and Homicidal Ideation in the Blog Posts of Family Caregivers of People with Dementia.
BACKGROUND: the challenges of providing care for someone with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) have been associated with increased stress, poor mental and physical health, social isolation, and financial distress. More recently, caregiving has been associated with high rates of suicidal and homicidal ideation, but the research on these phenomena is limited. The present study analyzed a sample of blogs written by family caregivers of people with ADRD to explore thoughts of suicide and homicide expressed by these caregivers. METHODS: Blogs written by self-identified informal caregivers of people with ADRD were identified using a systematic search method and data were analyzed using a qualitative thematic analysis. RESULTS: Five themes related to thoughts of suicide and homicide by caregivers and people with ADRD were derived from the analysis: (1) end-of-life care; (2) thoughts of death and euthanasia by the person with ADRD; (3) surrogate decision making; (4) thoughts of suicide by the caregiver; and (5) thoughts of homicide and euthanasia by the caregiver. CONCLUSIONS: the results capture the reality of suicidal and homicidal thoughts among family caregivers of people with ADRD, supporting calls for more research on these complex topics and highlighting the need for changes to clinical practice to prevent thoughts from becoming behaviors or actions.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Anonymous Members of the Peninsula Public Involvement Group, Liabo K, O'Dwyer S (2019). Research Commentary: a Carer's Roadmap for Research, Practice, and Policy on Suicide, Homicide, and Self-Harm.
Behav Sci (Basel),
9(5).
Abstract:
Research Commentary: a Carer's Roadmap for Research, Practice, and Policy on Suicide, Homicide, and Self-Harm.
Academic researchers are increasingly asked to engage with the wider world, both in terms of creating impact from their work, and in telling the world what goes on in university research departments. An aspect of this engagement involves working with patients, carers or members of the public as partners in research. This means working with them to identify important research questions and designing studies to address those questions. This commentary was jointly written by two researchers and people with relevant caring experience for this special issue. It brings to the forefront the concerns of carers who are also involved in research as partners. The aim is to highlight their perspectives to inform future research, policy, and practice.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Joling KJ, ten Have M, de Graaf R, O’Dwyer ST (2019). Risk factors for suicidal thoughts in informal caregivers: results from the population-based Netherlands mental health survey and incidence Study-2 (NEMESIS-2).
BMC Psychiatry,
19(1).
Abstract:
Risk factors for suicidal thoughts in informal caregivers: results from the population-based Netherlands mental health survey and incidence Study-2 (NEMESIS-2)
Abstract
.
. Background
. Previous research suggests that family caregivers contemplate suicide at a higher rate than the general population. Much of this research has been disease specific and in relatively small samples. This study aimed to compare suicidal thoughts between non-caregivers and informal caregivers of people with a variety of conditions, in a large representative sample, and to identify significant risk factors.
.
.
. Methods
. The general population study NEMESIS-2 (N at baseline = 6646) included 1582 adult caregivers at the second wave (2010–2012) who also participated at the third wave (2013–2015). Suicidal thoughts were assessed over 4 years, with the Suicidality Module of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview 3.0. The presence of suicidal thoughts was estimated and risk factors for suicidal thoughts were assessed with logistic regression analyses adjusted for age and gender.
.
.
. Results
. Thirty-six informal caregivers (2.9%) reported suicidal thoughts during the 4 year study period. The difference between caregivers and non-caregivers (3.0%) was not significant. Among caregivers, significant risk factors for suicidal thoughts included being unemployed, living without a partner, having lower levels of social support, having a chronic physical disorder, a mood disorder or an anxiety disorder, and having impaired social, physical and emotional functioning. These risk factors were also found in non-caregivers. No caregiving-related characteristics were associated with suicidal thoughts.
.
.
. Conclusion
. There was no elevated rate of suicidal thoughts in caregivers and risk factors for suicidal thoughts in caregivers were consistent with risk factors in non-caregivers. No association between caregiving characteristics and suicidal thoughts was found. Caregivers with limited resources and in poorer health might still benefit from prevention and intervention efforts.
.
Abstract.
2018
Moyle W, Jones C, Murfield J, Thalib L, Beattie E, Shum D, O'Dwyer S, Mervin MC, Draper B (2018). Effect of a robotic seal on the motor activity and sleep patterns of older people with dementia, as measured by wearable technology: a cluster-randomised controlled trial.
Maturitas,
110, 10-17.
Abstract:
Effect of a robotic seal on the motor activity and sleep patterns of older people with dementia, as measured by wearable technology: a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Objectives: the robotic seal, PARO, has been used as an alternative to animal-assisted therapies with residents with dementia in long-term care, yet understanding of its efficacy is limited by a paucity of research. We explored the effects of PARO on motor activity and sleep patterns, as measured by a wearable triaxial accelerometer. Study design: Cluster-randomised controlled trial, involving 28 facilities in Queensland, Australia. Nine facilities were randomised to the PARO group (individual, non-facilitated, 15-min sessions three afternoons per week for 10 weeks), 10 to a plush toy (PARO with robotic features disabled) and nine to usual care. Main outcome measures: Changes in day- and nighttime motor activity and sleep after the 10-week intervention, as measured by SenseWear® armbands, worn by participants continuously for 24 h at baseline, during two single intervention days in weeks 5 and 10 respectively, and post-intervention (week 15). Analyses followed intention-to-treat, using repeated-measures mixed-effects models. Results: After 10 weeks, the PARO group showed a greater reduction in daytime step count than usual care (p = 0.023), and in nighttime step count (p = 0.028) and daytime physical activity (p = 0.026) compared with the plush toy group. At post-intervention, the PARO group showed a greater reduction in daytime step count than the plush toy group (p = 0.028), and at nighttime compared with both the plush toy group (p = 0.019) and the usual-care group (p = 0.046). The PARO group also had a greater reduction in nighttime physical activity than the usual-care group (p = 0.015). Conclusions: PARO may have some effect on motor activity of older people with dementia in long-term care, but not on sleep patterns. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000508673).
Abstract.
O'Dwyer ST, Pinto S, McDonough S (2018). Self-care for academics: a poetic invitation to reflect and resist. Reflective Practice
Mervin MC, Moyle W, Jones C, Murfield J, Draper B, Beattie E, Shum DHK, O'Dwyer S, Thalib L (2018). The Cost-Effectiveness of Using PARO, a Therapeutic Robotic Seal, to Reduce Agitation and Medication Use in Dementia: Findings from a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
J Am Med Dir Assoc,
19(7), 619-622.e1.
Abstract:
The Cost-Effectiveness of Using PARO, a Therapeutic Robotic Seal, to Reduce Agitation and Medication Use in Dementia: Findings from a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
OBJECTIVES: to examine the within-trial costs and cost-effectiveness of using PARO, compared with a plush toy and usual care, for reducing agitation and medication use in people with dementia in long-term care. DESIGN: an economic evaluation, nested within a cluster-randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Twenty-eight facilities in South-East Queensland, Australia. PARTICIPANTS: a total of 415 residents, all aged 60 years or older, with documented diagnoses of dementia. INTERVENTION: Facilities were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: PARO (individual, nonfacilitated 15-minute sessions, 3 afternoons per week for 10 weeks); plush toy (as per PARO but with artificial intelligence disabled); and usual care. MEASUREMENTS: the incremental cost per Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory-Short Form (CMAI-SF) point averted from a provider's perspective. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (BLINDED FOR REVIEW). RESULTS: for the within-trial costs, the PARO group was $50.47 more expensive per resident compared with usual care, whereas the plush toy group was $37.26 more expensive than usual care. There were no statistically significant between-group differences in agitation levels after the 10-week intervention. The point estimates of the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were $13.01 for PARO and $12.85 for plush toy per CMAI-SF point averted relative to usual care. CONCLUSION: the plush toy used in this study offered marginally greater value for money than PARO in improving agitation. However, these costs are much lower than values estimated for psychosocial group activities and sensory interventions, suggesting that both a plush toy and the PARO are cost-effective psychosocial treatment options for agitation.
Abstract.
Author URL.
2017
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Taylor T, Creese J, Zimmer-Gembeck M (2017). In Their Own Words: How Family Carers of People with Dementia Understand Resilience.
Behav Sci (Basel),
7(3).
Abstract:
In Their Own Words: How Family Carers of People with Dementia Understand Resilience.
There is a growing body of research on resilience in family carers of people with dementia, but carers' voices are noticeably absent from it. The aim of this study was to explore carers' definitions of resilience and their opinions on the factors associated with resilience. Twenty-one in-depth interviews were conducted in Australia with people who were currently, or had previously been, caring for a family member with dementia. Transcripts were analysed thematically and three themes emerged: the presence of resilience, the path to resilience, and characteristics of the resilient carer. Although carers struggled to define resilience, the vast majority considered themselves resilient. Carers identified a range of traits, values, environments, resources, and behaviours associated with resilience, but there was no consensus on the relative importance or causal nature of these factors. Carers also considered resilience to be domain- and context-specific, but did not agree on whether resilience was a trait or a process. These findings highlight both the importance of including carers' voices in resilience research and the limitations of the extant literature. There is much to be done to develop a field of carer resilience research that is theoretically sound, methodologically rigorous, and reflects the lived experience of carers. A model is provided to prompt future research.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Moyle W, Jones C, Murfield J, Draper B, Beattie E, Shum D, Thalib L, O'Dwyer S, Mervin CM (2017). Levels of physical activity and sleep patterns among older people with dementia living in long-term care facilities: a 24-h snapshot.
Maturitas,
102, 62-68.
Abstract:
Levels of physical activity and sleep patterns among older people with dementia living in long-term care facilities: a 24-h snapshot
Objectives to objectively measure over a 24-h period the daytime and nighttime levels of physical activity and sleep patterns of older people with dementia living in long-term care facilities. Study design Nested within a larger research program, this cross-sectional study involved 415 residents, aged ≥60 years, with a documented diagnosis of dementia, from 28 long-term care facilities in south-east Queensland, Australia. Main outcome measures Residents wore SenseWear® activity armbands continuously for 24 h, with data recorded for: step count; total energy expenditure; metabolic equivalent of task (MET); and the amount of time spent physically active, lying down, awake, and asleep. Residents’ levels of cognitive impairment (assessed using the Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale) and agitation (assessed using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory-Short Form), and demographic data were also collected. Results from a total of 415 residents monitored with the SenseWear® activity armbands, 192 met the valid wear-time of 21 h or more, and had activity and sleep data recorded. These residents were largely inactive during the daytime (engaged in an average of 1.8 h of light physical activity), but achieved recommended amounts of sleep at night (average of 6.8 h). There was considerable variation within the sample, and activity and sleep differed by sex (p
Abstract.
Moyle W, El Saifi N, Draper B, Jones C, Beattie E, Shum D, Thalib L, Mervin C, O’Dwyer S (2017). Pharmacotherapy of Persons with Dementia in Long-term Care in Australia: a Descriptive Audit of Central Nervous System Medications. Current Drug Safety, 12(2).
Kang Y, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S (2017). Qualitative evaluation of a delirium prevention and management programme.
J Clin Nurs,
26(23-24), 4574-4582.
Abstract:
Qualitative evaluation of a delirium prevention and management programme.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: to evaluate the effect of an educational programme on registered nurses' knowledge and attitude in delirium care for hospitalised older adults with and without dementia, and to examine the strengths and weaknesses of the programme from the participants' perspectives. BACKGROUND: Providing care for patients with delirium or delirium superimposed on dementia often poses particular challenges such as distinguishing between delirium and dementia for nurses. DESIGN: a descriptive qualitative study was used. METHODS: a delirium educational programme based on adult learning principles was provided to the participants. A purposive sample of 12 registered nurses who participated in the educational programme undertook individual interviews. Content analysis was conducted to identify unique and common themes indicative of registered nurse perceptions. RESULTS: Registered nurses reported improved knowledge and attitude towards the delirium care of hospitalised older adults with dementia and at risk of delirium. Active learning in the programme facilitated the participants' learning processes. This active learning included deep learning, collaborative learning and application of new concepts to practice. Most participants felt that they had inadequate management support to apply their new knowledge in practice, and this included staff resource and policies and protocols. CONCLUSION: the qualitative findings indicated that the delirium education had benefited the participants by improving their knowledge and attitude towards the delirium care of hospitalised older adults with dementia and at risk of delirium. This study provided an understanding of the strengths and limitations of the educational programme delivered to registered nurses in South Korea. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: Registered nurses in South Korea should need not only appropriate education, but also adequate resources, policies and guidelines as well as support from managers and from all other healthcare professionals.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Cash T, Moyle W, O'Dwyer S (2017). Relationships in consumer-directed care: an integrative literature review.
Australas J Ageing,
36(3), 193-204.
Abstract:
Relationships in consumer-directed care: an integrative literature review.
OBJECTIVE: to undertake an integrative review of the literature on relationships between community aged care recipients, family carers and care providers under consumer-directed care (CDC). METHODS: Seven databases were systematically searched. Peer-reviewed and grey literature on CDC between 1998 and 2014 were assessed using an integrative literature review (ILR) framework. Search terms included CDC, self-directed care, direct payments, community aged care, community dwelling and older adults. Full-text copies were assessed against the inclusion criteria. RESULTS: Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. This ILR found no research with a specific focus on caregiving relationships for older adults. The literature did however identify relational issues such as support, planning and provider attitude as fundamental to the success of CDC. CONCLUSION: Relationships within the caregiving triad have important implications for the way CDC is enacted, particularly when the care recipient has dementia, suggesting this population as a priority for future research.
Abstract.
Author URL.
Kang Y, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S (2017). South Korean Family Caregiver Involvement in Delirium Care: a Qualitative Descriptive Study. Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 43(12), 44-51.
Joling KJ, O'Dwyer ST, Hertogh CMPM, van Hout HPJ (2017). The occurrence and persistence of thoughts of suicide, self-harm and death in family caregivers of people with dementia: a longitudinal data analysis over 2 years. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 33(2), 263-270.
Moyle W, Jones CJ, Murfield JE, Thalib L, Beattie ERA, Shum DKH, O'Dwyer ST, Mervin MC, Draper BM (2017). Use of a Robotic Seal as a Therapeutic Tool to Improve Dementia Symptoms: a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
Journal of the American Medical Directors Association,
18(9), 766-773.
Abstract:
Use of a Robotic Seal as a Therapeutic Tool to Improve Dementia Symptoms: a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Objectives to test the effects of individual, nonfacilitated sessions with PARO (version 9), when compared against a look-alike plush toy and usual care, on the emotional and behavioral symptoms of dementia for people living in long-term care facilities. Design Parallel, 3-group, cluster-randomized controlled trial conducted between June 14, 2014, and May 16, 2015. Setting Twenty-eight long-term care facilities operated by 20 care organizations located in South-East Queensland, Australia. Participants Four hundred fifteen participants aged ≥60 years, with a documented diagnosis of dementia. Intervention Stratified by private/not-for-profit status and randomized using a computer-generated sequence, 9 facilities were randomized to the PARO group (individual, nonfacilitated, 15-minute sessions 3 times per week for 10 weeks); 10 to plush toy (same, but given PARO with robotic features disabled); and 9 to usual care. Treatment allocation was masked to assessors. Measurements Primary outcomes were changes in levels of engagement, mood states, and agitation after a 10-week intervention, assessed by coded video observations (baseline, weeks 1, 5, 10, and 15) and Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory–Short Form (baseline, weeks 10 and 15). Analyses followed intention-to-treat, using repeated measures mixed effects models. Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000508673). Results Video data showed that participants in the PARO group were more verbally [3.61, 95% confidence interval (CI): 6.40–0.81, P =.011] and visually engaged (13.06, 95% CI: 17.05–9.06, P
Abstract.
2016
Kang Y, Moyle W, Cooke M, O'Dwyer ST (2016). An educational programme to improve acute care nurses' knowledge, attitudes and family caregiver involvement in care of people with cognitive impairment. Scandinavian Journal of Caring Sciences, 31(3), 631-640.
Petriwskyj A, Parker D, O’Dwyer S, Moyle W, Nucifora N (2016). Interventions to build resilience in family caregivers of people living with dementia. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, 14(6), 238-273.
Nović A, Kõlves K, O’Dwyer S, Leo DD (2016). Migraine and Suicidal Behaviors. The Clinical Journal of Pain, 32(4), 351-364.
O'Dwyer ST, De Leo D (2016). Older adults and suicide. In Wasserman D (Ed)
Suicide an Unnecessary Death, Oxford University Press.
Abstract:
Older adults and suicide
Abstract.
O'Dwyer ST, McDonough S, Jefferson R, Goff J, Redman-MacLaren M (2016). Writing groups in the digital age: a case study analysis of Shut up & Write Tuesdays. In Esposito A (Ed) Research 2.0 and the impact of digital technologies on scholarly inquiry, Pennsylvania, USA: IGI Global.
2015
Moyle W, Beattie E, Draper B, Shum D, Thalib L, Jones C, O'Dwyer S, Mervin C (2015). Effect of an interactive therapeutic robotic animal on engagement, mood states, agitation and psychotropic drug use in people with dementia: a cluster-randomised controlled trial protocol: Table 1. BMJ Open, 5(8), e009097-e009097.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Taylor T, Creese J, Zimmer-Gembeck MJ (2015). Homicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia. Aging & Mental Health, 20(11), 1174-1181.
Petriwskyj A, Parker D, OʼDwyer S, Moyle W, Nucifora N (2015). Interventions to build resilience in family carers of people living with dementia: a systematic review protocol. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, 13(7), 44-61.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Zimmer-Gembeck M, De Leo D (2015). Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia. Aging & Mental Health, 20(2), 222-230.
Moyle W, Jones C, Sung B, Bramble M, O’Dwyer S, Blumenstein M, Estivill-Castro V (2015). What Effect Does an Animal Robot Called CuDDler Have on the Engagement and Emotional Response of Older People with Dementia? a Pilot Feasibility Study. International Journal of Social Robotics, 8(1), 145-156.
Workman Bolt E (2015). Yielding.
Abstract:
Yielding
Yielding is the first in playwright Emma Workman Bolt’s series Let’s Speak of the Unspoken. Informed by my research on suicide risk in family carers, it examines the breaking point in a relationship between an adult daughter and her ageing mother.
Abstract.
2014
Moyle W, Jones C, Cooke M, O’Dwyer S, Sung B, Drummond S (2014). Connecting the person with dementia and family: a feasibility study of a telepresence robot. BMC Geriatrics, 14(1).
O’Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Pachana NA, Sung B, Barrett S (2014). Feeling that life is not worth living (death thoughts) among middle-aged, Australian women providing unpaid care. Maturitas, 77(4), 375-379.
Moyle W, Cooke ML, Beattie E, Shum DHK, O'Dwyer ST, Barrett S, Sung B (2014). Foot Massage and Physiological Stress in People with Dementia: a Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 20(4), 305-311.
Moyle W, Cooke ML, Beattie E, Shum DHK, O’Dwyer ST, Barrett S (2014). Foot massage versus quiet presence on agitation and mood in people with dementia: a randomised controlled trial. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 51(6), 856-864.
Sritoomma N, Moyle W, Cooke M, O’Dwyer S (2014). The effectiveness of Swedish massage with aromatic ginger oil in treating chronic low back pain in older adults: a randomized controlled trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 22(1), 26-33.
2013
Moyle W, Jones C, Cooke M, O'Dwyer S, Sung B, Drummond S (2013). Social robots helping people with dementia: Assessing efficacy of social robots in the nursing home environment.
Abstract:
Social robots helping people with dementia: Assessing efficacy of social robots in the nursing home environment
Abstract.
O'Dwyer S, Moyle W, van Wyk S (2013). Suicidal ideation and resilience in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot qualitative study. Aging & Mental Health, 17(6), 753-760.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Zimmer-Gembeck M, De Leo D (2013). Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, n/a-n/a.
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W, Zimmer-Gembeck M, De Leo D (2013). Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study.
International journal of geriatric psychiatry,
28(11), 1182-1188.
Abstract:
Suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia: a pilot study.
The objective of this pilot study was to gather preliminary evidence on suicidal ideation in family carers of people with dementia. An online, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 120 family carers, the majority of whom were located in Australia and USA. The survey included measures of suicidality, self-efficacy, physical health, depression, hopelessness, anxiety, optimism, caregiver burden, coping strategies and social support. Twenty-six percent of carers had contemplated suicide more than once in the previous year. Only half of these had ever told someone they might commit suicide and almost 30% said they were likely to attempt suicide in the future. Carers who had contemplated suicide had poorer mental health, lower self-efficacy for community support service use and greater use of dysfunctional coping strategies than those who had not. In a logistic regression, only depression predicted the presence of suicidal thoughts. A significant number of people might contemplate suicide while caring for a family member with dementia. Although more research is required to confirm this finding, there are clear implications for policy and clinical practice in terms of identifying and supporting carers who are already contemplating suicide. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abstract.
Moyle W, Cooke M, O’Dwyer ST, Murfield J, Johnston A, Sung B (2013). The effect of foot massage on long-term care staff working with older people with dementia: a pilot, parallel group, randomized controlled trial. BMC Nursing, 12(1).
O'Dwyer ST, Moyle W (2013). Using Google Adwords to recruit family carers of people with dementia. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 33(2), 128-131.
2012
Moyle W, O’Dwyer S (2012). Quality of life in people living with dementia in nursing homes. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 25(6), 480-484.
Vaughan S, Morris N, Shum D, O’Dwyer S, Polit D (2012). Study protocol: a randomised controlled trial of the effects of a multi-modal exercise program on cognition and physical functioning in older women. BMC Geriatrics, 12(1).
Moyle W, Murfield JE, O’Dwyer S, Van Wyk S (2012). The effect of massage on agitated behaviours in older people with dementia: a literature review. Journal of Clinical Nursing, no-no.
Netchanok S, Wendy M, Marie C, Siobhan O (2012). The effectiveness of Swedish massage and traditional Thai massage in treating chronic low back pain: a review of the literature. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 18(4), 227-234.
2011
Moyle W, Johnston ANB, O'Dwyer ST (2011). Exploring the effect of foot massage on agitated behaviours in older people with dementia: a pilot study. Australasian Journal on Ageing, 30(3), 159-161.
2007
O'Dwyer ST, Burton NW, Pachana NA, Brown WJ (2007). Protocol for Fit Bodies, Fine Minds: a randomized controlled trial on the affect of exercise and cognitive training on cognitive functioning in older adults. BMC Geriatrics, 7(1).