Bowlby's Attachment Theory

There are a large number of people suffering from dementia. In the U.S. there are thought to be around 5 million people living with age related dementias and this number is increasing. Research shows that 60-90% of people with dementia exhibit some level of distress. This distress can take many forms such as anxiety, anger, fear, depression, and suspicion to name a few. Phycological interventions have traditionally been pharmacological but recently in an effort to use a more holistic approach, healthcare providers have been encouraged to try some nonpharmacological interventions. There are several examples of nonpharmacological therapies that have been studied and proven successful like aromatherapy, reminiscence therapy and music therapy.

Another newer therapy that does not have as much research but hopefully will in the future is doll therapy.
The theory behind Doll therapy originated from phycologist John Bowlby’s Attachment theory.

This theory, however, was mainly related to children. It was not until after the death of Bowlby that Miesen noticed a similarity between Bowlby’s theory and dementia patients. People suffering for dementia often search for their parents or spouses, which is thought to be an attachment need. Searching can indicated insecurity and a need to be reunited with a familiar figure in order to feel safe. A transitional object such as a blanket, doll, or stuffed animal is often used by children who are being separated from their primary care giver to provide security and comfort. It seems that this can also work for people with dementia. When residents move to a long term care facility they may lose sentimental belongings and other objects of meaningful attachment including family members. A doll or other transitional object can help by serving as an anchor during times of uncertainty. Some empirical evidence collected from studies in Newcastle, UK showed that when people living with dementia were given dolls they became more active, much less anxious, and more content, they used the dolls to communicate with others, there was a reduction in wondering, as well as aggressive behaviors. Some studies in Japan had similar results and also concluded that patients seemed to prefer more life like dolls. Studies in Australia, likewise, had similar results to those done in the UK with the addition of a few other benefits such as increased food consumption and improved social

interactions.
There is some opposition to doll therapy. Some people consider it inappropriate due to concerns about dignity. It can be viewed as demining to treat an adult patient in a child like manner. Some think it is a breach of trust, or even an act of deceit by the care giver. One also has to consider how it makes the family members feel as some may not be comfortable with their loved ones “playing with a doll”. As with most interventions, doll therapy is not for everyone. It is for dementia patients in more advanced stages and you must evaluate the individual and take into consideration their personal history.
Dolls made specifically for people living with dementia can be purchased, but they are rather expensive. The website I found had them listed for $119.00. I would like to conclude with at statement left by a customer of this website. She stated that the doll helped her mom escape form the world where she was the person being cared for, and allowed her to once again have the familiar occupation of caring for someone.