Doll therapy for dementia
An overview of how doll therapy can help dementia patients, and how Care Professionals with bespoke dementia knowledge can support this unique therapy modality at home.
What is doll therapy for dementia?
Dementia care may look different for every patient, since symptoms vary depending on the type of dementia and the level of deterioration. Dementia requires bespoke support to manage symptoms like memory loss, communication difficulties, and emotional and behavioural issues. Some of the behavioural changes in those with dementia include paranoia, wandering, hallucinations and fear, so caregivers may need to manage negative emotions that contribute to distressing behaviours.
Doll therapy (DT) can be an effective tool for this; it involves giving a dementia patient a lifelike doll or soft toy animal, sometimes referred to as an empathy doll. Doing so can provide a sense of purpose and feelings of comfort that can reduce anxiety and agitation.
In what way could doll therapy help older adults with dementia?
A 2022 study found doll therapy led to reduced aggression and irritation, and improved communication. Further research suggests for some dementia patients, focusing on caring for a doll can:
- Reduce agitation
- Reduce wandering
- Reduce distress
- Increase happiness
- Improve food intake
- Improve overall wellbeing
Keep in mind that doll therapy will not work for everyone. Some dementia patients feel no attachment to their doll, and in some cases, families or healthcare professionals may worry about potential distress or unhealthy attachments, or they might have ethical concerns over the person’s dignity, since doll play is associated with child-like behaviours. If you are curious about doll therapy, it is best to speak to your loved one’s GP to learn more.
Could my loved one benefit from doll therapy?
If your relative shows signs of agitation or loneliness, doll therapy could be a helpful tool that provides them with purpose and companionship in daily life, or it could be useful in situations where they must attend a healthcare appointment and need something to focus on throughout to minimise stress.
Keep in mind that dementia can lead to higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression in carers, too. Doll therapy is considered an effective, non-pharmacological intervention that can reduce caregiver distress, so this could have far-reaching benefits. If you are unsure whether this is the right path for an older loved one, you can discuss other types of therapy and dementia care with our friendly team, or with their GP.
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How to get started with doll therapy for dementia
“[Doll therapy] offers them an anchor or a sense of attachment…”
– Gary Mitchell, author of Doll Therapy in Dementia Care: Evidence and Practice
It is understandable for families to have hesitation about starting doll therapy due to concerns over attachment and dignity. If you are considering this, start by getting their GP’s advice on whether or not they believe this is a good fit for your loved one.
When it comes to choosing a doll, avoid forcing this on them. Instead, place it somewhere in their environment and let them come across it in their own time. You can learn more at Dementia UK. Our experienced Care Professionals can also support families and those with dementia who are starting to use doll therapy for improved wellbeing.
Why Home Instead?
Our Care Professionals are highly trained in dementia care that has been specially developed using a unique programme accredited by City & Guilds. It is designed for the home care environment, and created by dementia specialists and key medical practitioners from around the world.
We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). With our support, families can create the exact combination of care that works for the patient’s unique needs, behaviours and emotional challenges. Our aim is always to improve an older person’s independence and quality of life as much as possible, so if you feel doll therapy could benefit your loved one, we are here to help.
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FAQs
What is dementia doll therapy, and how does it help?
Dementia doll therapy involves providing individuals with dementia a lifelike doll to hold and care for. This therapeutic approach can help reduce anxiety, improve mood, and provide a sense of purpose and comfort by stimulating nurturing instincts.
How does doll therapy benefit individuals with dementia?
Doll therapy can help alleviate feelings of loneliness, agitation, and restlessness. It encourages engagement, promotes emotional well-being, and can even help improve communication and focus for individuals with dementia.
Is dementia doll therapy suitable for everyone?
While many individuals with dementia respond positively to doll therapy, it may not be suitable for everyone. It’s important to introduce the therapy gently and observe the individual’s reaction to ensure it provides comfort and not distress.
How can carers support dementia doll therapy at home?
Care Professionals can support doll therapy by encouraging interaction with the doll in a way that feels natural and comforting. They can also use the therapy to create a calming routine, provide reassurance, and engage the individual in meaningful activities.
How do I introduce dementia doll therapy to a loved one?
To introduce doll therapy, choose a lifelike doll that feels comforting to hold. Present it in a non-intrusive way, allowing the individual to interact with it at their own pace. Monitor their response and adjust the approach based on their comfort and preferences.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.