Cable-Williams, Beryl

Older adults with dementia experience higher rates of hospitalization than those without dementia, yet nurses in acute care frequently feel unprepared to support patients with responsive behaviours using non-pharmacological approaches. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of nurses' using activity-based interventions, such as colouring, word games, therapeutic dolls, and mechanical pets, with patients with dementia in a small community hospital. Using a qualitative interpretive descriptive method, face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten nurses (five Registered Practical Nurses, two Registered Nurses, and two Nurse Practitioners). Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis. Five major themes and multiple sub-themes were identified: (1) enhancing safety, stability, and emotional well-being, (2) facilitating engagement through practical and adaptive strategies, (3) collective responsibility and collaboration, (4) opportunity for deeper understanding and connection, and (5) challenges implementing activity interventions. The findings highlight how activity-based interventions enhance relational, person-centred care while revealing barriers related to resources, time, and knowledge. These results can inform the Canadian Gerontological Nurses' Association's aesthetic/artful standard and reinforce the need for enhanced dementia education for nurses and evaluation of activity-based interventions.

Author Keywords: activity, acute care nursing, dementia care, gerontological nursing, non-pharmacological interventions, responsive behaiours

This study examines the experiences of Tamil Canadian caregivers providing home care for older adults with dementia, highlighting their unique challenges. Grounded in a social constructivist and phenomenological approach, the qualitative research explores the influence of social, cultural, and familial expectations on caregiving roles. Semi-structured interviews with ten Tamil Canadian caregivers revealed difficulties in accessing healthcare, managing complex care needs, and balancing personal well-being with caregiving responsibilities. Language barriers and limited awareness of available health and social services further exacerbated emotional, financial, and physical burdens. Caregivers expressed a strong need for educational resources to enhance their skills and support their roles. Despite these challenges, participants reported emotional rewards, such as strengthened family bonds and a profound sense of duty. The study underscores the importance of tailored interventions, advocating for culturally responsive services, language support, and caregiver education to better address the needs of Tamil Canadian caregivers.

Author Keywords: caregiver burden, cultural barriers, cultural values in caregiving, language barriers, self-care for caregivers., tamil Canadian caregivers