Case study of implementation of the tailored activity programme
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A comparative evaluation case study of the implementation of the tailored activity programme for occupational therapists working with people living with dementia and their caregivers.
IRAS ID
213790
Contact name
Niamh Kinsella
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Queen Margaret University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 26 days
Research summary
The tailored activity programme (TAP) is a complex, multi-step occupational therapy programme for people living with dementia and their caregivers. It was developed in the US and is applied procedurally by occupational therapists using manuals and criteria provided in TAP training. It involves assessment of cognitive and functional abilities of the person living with dementia and assessment of the home environment. Assessment information is used to match abilities of the person to activities or occupations that they choose to do. The caregiver is provided with information or education on supporting the person living with dementia and on matching activities to their remaining cognitive and functional abilities.
Initial research studies conducted in the US suggest that the TAP (applied procedurally) may be beneficial in reducing behavioural symptoms of dementia and improving quality of life for both the person living with dementia and their caregiver. However, these studies did not consider the variability in practice settings and how the programme might be used in other countries. Clinical evidence suggests that occupational therapists in Scotland adapt the TAP protocol according to the needs of the people that they are working with. For example, they may only use one of the assessments specified in the TAP manual. Thus, each instance of application of the TAP is different. Occupational therapists suggest that they are doing TAP ‘inspired’ practice and using the TAP as a means of facilitating person-centred occupational therapy. However, the factors that guide and influence TAP ‘inspired’ practice in a Sottish context require exploration. It is important to understand what TAP looks like when it is applied within a framework of person-centred occupational therapy and how this is experienced by all people involved in the programme. This exploration will facilitate development of practice and evaluation of the TAP in the future.
REC name
Scotland A: Adults with Incapacity only
REC reference
16/SS/0218
Date of REC Opinion
1 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion