The moral and gender implications of measures used to modulate the mobility of people with dementia living in residential care environments: a scoping review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Policies and measures often restrict the mobility of people with dementia living in residential care environments to protect them from harm. However, such measures can violate human rights and impact the quality of life. This review aims to summarize the literature on what is known about measures used to modulate the life-space mobility of residents with dementia living in a residential care environment. Further, moral and sex and gender considerations were explored.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A scoping review framework was referenced to summarize the literature. Five databases were searched: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. The studies for eligibility using the Rayyan screening tool.

RESULTS: A total of 30 articles met the inclusion criteria. A narrative description of the findings of the articles is presented across three themes: i) measures and strategies used to modulate the life-space mobility; ii) moral aspects; and iii) sex and gender considerations.

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS: Various measures are used to modulate the life-space mobility of people with dementia living in residential care facilities. Research exploring the sex and gender differences of people with dementia is lacking. With a focus on human rights and quality of life, measures used to restrict or support mobility must support the diverse needs, capacity, and dignity of people with dementia. Noting the capacity and diversity of people with dementia will require society and public space to adopt strategies that promote safety and mobility to support the quality of life of people with dementia.