Background: Obtaining economic data on health care interventions and practices is extremely important, with the bulk of systematic reviews continuing to concentrate on the effectiveness of an intervention. Although popular, there is a scarcity of information available on the cost considerations associated with canine-assisted intervention programs for older population residing in long term care facilities.
Objective: The aim of the review was to synthesise the best available evidence on the economic feasibility of canine-assisted interventions on the health and social care of the older population residing in long term care.
Data sources: A comprehensive search was undertaken on 32 electronic databases from their inception to 2009. The search was restricted to English language and both published and unpublished studies were considered. An expert in the field, and various contacts from a reputable organisation involved in delivering programs, were also contacted to determine if any other papers or reports were available.
Review methods: This review considered quantitative/economic research papers that addressed the feasibility of canine-assisted intervention programs used for older people residing in long term care. In the absence of research papers, text and opinion were considered. Critical appraisal and data extraction of papers was to be undertaken using the appropriate Joanna Briggs Institute instruments dependant on design.
Results: There were no studies located that met the inclusion requirements of this review. There were also no text and opinion pieces that were specific to canine-assisted interventions, long term care settings and older people.
Conclusion: The economic feasibility of a canine-assisted intervention program in a long term care facility remains largely unknown. The evidence is additionally hampered by a lack of scientific data to support whether canine-assisted interventions provide physical, emotional and social benefits to older people, particularly in the longer term.
Implications for practice: Preliminary evidence from textual papers suggest long term care facilities that are contemplating introducing a program should consider the following aspects: the available resources the facility can offer (staff, time, resources, training), setup/changes to infrastructure, the mode of program delivery (independent, resident animal), insurance and liability and program evaluation. Regardless of cost, the preferences and safety of staff, residents' and their family should always be considered.
Implications for research: Economic studies are urgently required to determine the feasibility of providing canine-assisted interventions in long term care settings.