Large-Screen Group Digital Reminiscence Therapy Reduces BPSD in Dementia: Findings from a Crossover Comparative Study.

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the effectiveness of group‑based digital reminiscence therapy (GDRT) delivered via large‑screen visual stimuli optimized for the perceptual characteristics of people with dementia. The primary aim was to reduce behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) and caregiver burden.

METHODS

A crossover study was conducted with 44 residents from four long‑term care facilities. Participants received five weeks of GDRT and five weeks of conventional activities in alternating sequences, separated by a 12‑week washout period. GDRT employed visually enhanced photographs and videos projected on a 100‑inch screen. Primary outcomes were BPSD and caregiver burden assessed using the NPI‑NH; secondary outcomes included cognitive function (MMSE‑J) and verbal fluency.

RESULTS

Compared with conventional activities, GDRT resulted in significantly greater reductions in overall BPSD (r = 0.56, p = .001) and caregiver burden (r = 0.44, p = .011). Significant improvements were observed in apathy. Cognitive function improved during the GDRT phase (r = 0.44), whereas verbal fluency showed no significant change.

CONCLUSIONS

GDRT tailored to visual and cognitive characteristics of people with dementia effectively reduces apathy, BPSD and caregiver burden.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Visually optimized, large‑screen digital reminiscence materials represent a practical and resource‑efficient approach for dementia care.