A Systematic Analysis of Effectiveness of Nurse-Led Dementia Care Interventions on Health Outcomes Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults

Review Article

Abstract

Nurse-led dementia care programs can help in managing cognitive decline among community-dwelling older adults. Analysis of recent clinical trials and observational studies shows substantial improvements in cognitive function, behavioral symptoms, and quality of life metrics through structured nurse-led interventions. Programs incorporating cognitive stimulation therapy, medication management, and regular home visits showed marked reductions in behavioral disturbances and depression scores. Caregiver outcomes improved significantly, with decreased burden scores and enhanced competency in managing daily care activities. Healthcare utilization data indicated reduced emergency department visits and delayed institutionalization, resulting in cost savings. Specifically, programs featuring cognitive rehabilitation components showed a 30% improvement in daily living activities, while those emphasizing caregiver education reduced caregiver stress by 45%. Implementation challenges included resource limitations, geographical barriers, and varying levels of healthcare system integration. The evidence supports expanding nurse-led dementia care initiatives, particularly those combining cognitive interventions, caregiver support, and coordinated care delivery models. Current research should focus on standardizing intervention protocols and evaluating long-term outcomes across diverse populations