Factors Influencing Engagement in Work-Related Activities Among People With Dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: People with dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) desire social connection and meaningful contribution, despite often being excluded from work-related activities. The impact of engagement in work-related activities on the mental well-being of people with dementia or MCI remains underexplored.

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the factors influencing engagement in work-related activities among people with dementia or MCI.

Design: Cross-sectional study.

Setting: Seven-day care centers in Japan.

Participants: Sixty-three day care center members with dementia or MCI who had participated in work-related activities for at least 6 months.

Measures: Well-being assessed by the World Health Organization-Five Well-Being Index (WHO-5); engagement evaluated by the Assessment of Quality of Activities (A-QOA), an occupational therapists-developed observational assessment tool; and confounders of engagement.

Results: Among the 63 participants (age: median: 83 years, interquartile range [IQR]: 61, 94; Mini-Mental State Examination-Japanese score: median: 19 points, IQR: 4, 27), 74.6% were female. A significant correlation was observed between the WHO-5 and A-QOA (ρ = 0.433, p < 0.001). Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed a significant association between the A-QOA and WHO-5 (β = 0.480, p < 0.001), frequency of participation (β = 0.337, p = 0.003), and hearing loss-related social limitations (β = 0.286, p = 0.01).

Conclusion: Greater engagement in work-related activities was associated with better well-being, higher frequency of participation, and hearing loss-related social limitations. Implementation of and support for personalized work-related activities, considering these factors for people with dementia or MCI, could enhance their engagement and promote their mental well-being.