Utomhusmiljöns betydelse för personer med demenssjukdom

Background: Previous research shows that people with dementia seem to experience outdoor environments as positive for their mental wellbeing. There are instances where the availability of such environments is limited, due to the perception that it is unsafe. Aim: The aim was to describe the experiences of the outdoor environment in people with dementia. Method: A systematic literature review containing a descriptive synthesis by Evans was used to analyze and compile the data of 11 articles. Findings: The results of the descriptive synthesis formed two themes and two subthemes, the first was reawakening of latent abilities along with the subthemes reminiscing and affected autonomy. The second was support of human interactions along with the subtheme's social communion and experience of meaningful participation. The result shows a relationship between reminiscing, well-being and self-image while residing outdoors, and how the experience of the outdoor environments changes the self-image for people with dementia. Conclusions: Despite findings that suggest positive benefits in relation to visiting the outdoor environment, the lack of research makes the findings inconclusive. Therefore, more research is needed to confirm the positive influence the outdoor environment has on people with dementia.