Volunteers motivations and involvement in dementia care in hospitals, aged care and resident homes: An integrative review.

OBJECTIVE: To review the current literature related to the role of volunteers in dementia care in hospitals, aged care and resident homes. DESIGN: Integrative review method was used to identify and analyse current literature. METHOD: Data extracted included; author, methodology, sample, aims, data collection and analysis, findings, limitations, and comments. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2011, was used to appraise the quality of the final articles. DATA SOURCES: Databases searched included CINAHL, Medline, ProQuest Central and PubMed. Keywords and MeSH terms: dementia, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, volunteers, volunteering, voluntary workers, hospital, acute care, aged care, residents. RESULTS: 14 articles reviewed, and three major themes revealed: volunteer motivation, volunteer involvement, and understanding roles. Recommendations to assist with future volunteer programs in dementia care are presented. CONCLUSION: Volunteer programs are beneficial to patients, family, volunteers, health care, and staff. Research of volunteers' needs, motivations and role required, aiming to improve support and training.