Reality orientation for dementia: a systematic review of the evidence of effectiveness from randomized controlled trials

Gerontologist. 2000 Apr;40(2):206-12. doi: 10.1093/geront/40.2.206.

Abstract

The effectiveness of classroom reality orientation (RO) in dementia was evaluated by conducting a systematic literature review. This yielded 43 studies, of which 6 were randomized controlled trials meeting the inclusion criteria (containing 125 subjects.) Results were subjected to meta-analysis. Effects on cognition and behavior were significant in favor of treatment (cognition standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.95(-)-0.22; behavior SMD = -0.64, 95% CI = -1.20(-)-0.08). The evidence indicates that RO has benefits on both cognition and behavior for dementia sufferers. However, a continued program may be needed to sustain potential benefits. Future research should evaluate RO in well-designed multicenter trials.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Alzheimer Disease / therapy
  • Behavior
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Cognition
  • Dementia / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Meta-Analysis as Topic
  • Middle Aged
  • Psychotherapy, Group
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Reality Testing*
  • Time Factors
  • Treatment Outcome