Literature review on occupational therapy assessment for dementia with Lewy bodies

Abstract

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) occurs through the same mechanisms as Parkinson's disease (PD）, leading to similar symptoms. While PD occupational therapy guidelines recommend several assessment indicators, there have been few reports on DLB, and the status of assessments is unclear. Therefore, to elucidate the assessment indicators in occupational therapy interventions for DLB, we conducted a literature review of occupational therapy intervention studies targeting DLB and examined the assessment indicators used. As a result, 14 papers were included, revealing that assessments of cognitive function, tasks, and activities of daily living are being conducted. However, compared to PD, assessments of physical function, mental function, and disease-specific evaluations are insufficient. Using assessment indicators may allow for a multifaceted understanding of disabilities and strengths.