To what extent is occupation of influence on the risk of dementia?: A systematic review

Wilcox, Caroline (2010) To what extent is occupation of influence on the risk of dementia?: A systematic review. [Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)] (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Abstract

Introduction and background

Dementia is typically a disease of old age and is characterised by chronic disorder of behaviour and intellectual function. With an aging population the disease is becoming of increasing concern. Increased awareness of the disease as one of modifiable risk has prompted research to further investigate such risk factors. Current research indicates a number of lifestyle factors to be of influence in forming overall disease risk. This study aims to establish the effect occupation has on the risk of developing dementia.

Methodology

To achieve the study aims a systematic review was carried out. A literature search allowed relevant literature to be identified. Searching took place across a range of databases using predetermined search terms. After initial searching studies were then further selected for inclusion in the review based on clear inclusion and exclusion criteria. Articles were selected for inclusion in four stages; articles returned using search terms, relevance on reading title, relevance on reading abstract and finally relevance after reading full text.

Results and Conclusions

Three main outcomes were found within the included studies. No relationship between occupation and dementia, highly skilled occupation linked with low risk of dementia and low skilled occupation linked with high risk of dementia. The potential for a causal relationship was identified and further investigated using the Bradford Hill criteria for causal relationships. The findings fulfilled six of the nine criteria indicating a causal relationship is likely. However, this relationship is difficult to disentangle from the effects of social interaction and education on the risk of dementia. This review concluded that a strong relationship exists between occupation and dementia. The author also recommends targeted health promotion to allow those more at risk of dementia to be provided with cognitively stimulating tasks and be encouraged to engage in socially stimulating environments.

Item Type: Dissertation (University of Nottingham only)
Depositing User: EP, Services
Date Deposited: 01 Feb 2011 09:55
Last Modified: 21 Mar 2022 16:06
URI: https://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/id/eprint/23605

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