Abstract
Since its first implementation in 1998, evidence has been presented of the positive impact of the TimeSlips storytelling method for people with dementia in long-term care (LTC) settings. This paper extends this evidence in important new directions: it is the longest TimeSlips study to date and the first to evaluate the feasibility of online delivery of the method (in response to COVID-19 quarantine) and the impact of this on the personhood, quality of life and psychological well-being of Spanish-speaking participants in non-LTC settings in the Global South.
Trained facilitators provided weekly, one-hour TimeSlips sessions via Zoom over 32 consecutive weeks to eight participants with dementia. Semi-structured interviews of participants and care partners were conducted within one week of the final intervention. Thematic analysis evaluated the resultant qualitative data.
This online implementation of the TimeSlips creative expression (CE) method reinforced key facets of participants' personhood (self-expression and self-perception, which led in turn to increased care partner appreciation), had a positive impact on key domains of quality of life (mood, energy levels and cognitive function) and stimulated a key aspect of psychological well-being (the formation and maintenance of social ties).
The online delivery of the TimeSlips method to participants who remain in their own homes is feasible and effective. Future research should compare the benefits of online versus face-to-face delivery of this CE method.