We will evaluate qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies. The quantitative component of this review will explore the relationship between sensory practices and the quality of life of residents living in long-term care. The qualitative component will explore the views, perceptions, and beliefs of residents in relation to the impact of sensory practices on their own quality of life. To identify relevant studies, specific inclusion and exclusion criteria have been identified using the Population, Interventions, Comparators, Outcomes, and Study designs (PICOS):
Population: This review will consider studies conducted with older adult residents living in long-term care settings. We will adapt the definition of “older person” depending upon the settings where the studies are conducted. For example, the World Health Organization’s definition for “older people” in Africa is 60 years of age or older [
46]. There is a wide array of definitions for long-term care settings, with different living options and support needs for older adults [
47]. The term “long-term care setting” is often used interchangeably with residential care facilities, assisted living, supportive housing, nursing homes, and/or long-term care homes. For the purposes of this systematic review, we will include all types of long-term care settings [
47].
Interventions: This review will consider studies that evaluate sensory practices. These practices are defined as any practices implemented by a long-term care organization that focus on any of the five senses. Examples of such practices include but are not limited to auditory stimulation (used to enhance mood, promote relaxation, and cognition), fidget blankets (used to reduce the use of medication in agitation, particularly in older people with dementia), and modification of the physical layout of the environment (allowing residents to see and smell food as it is being prepared).
Comparators: Studies will be eligible for inclusion whether or not they include comparison groups.
Outcomes: For quantitative studies, our primary outcome is health-related quality of life (HRQOL) (e.g., Short-Form 36-item Health Survey). Secondary outcomes include resident and caregiver satisfaction/experience [
48] (e.g., impact on mood, relaxation). For qualitative studies, we are looking for qualitative descriptions or themes related to the experiences of residents and/or their caregivers.
Study designs: We will include a range of study designs including randomized and non-randomized studies, controlled before and after studies, historically controlled studies, retrospective or prospective cohort studies, mixed-methods studies, and qualitative studies (such as descriptive, ethnographic, narrative, case studies, and phenomenology).