The backdrop to the trial is a problem geriatricians have documented for decades: profound, chronic inactivity. Research cited in the paper found that nursing home residents with dementia spend the majority of their waking hours—up to two-thirds of the day—engaged in no activity at all. In one survey of 107 residents, nearly 45 percent received little or no facility-based activity, while another 20 percent received activities poorly matched to their functional levels and interests. A Norwegian phenomenological study reached a similar conclusion: people with dementia were largely satisfied with life in Norwegian nursing homes, but described everyday life as boring. Clinicians have been blunter. Bettina Husebø, head of Norway’s Centre for Geriatrics and Nursing Home Medicine, has said that elderly people in nursing homes are “bored to death,” while a supervising physician told national broadcaster NRK that heavy consumption of antidepressants and tranquilizers in these facilities could have been different “if we had had greater access to activities.” Engagement in appropriate activities, previous research shows, is among the strongest levers for raising happiness and quality of life in this population.

The device at the center of the study, Touch & Play, is not simply an oversized tablet but a category of its own: a large, ruggedized interactive touch screen built to be touched, slapped, and even pelted with objects. The software running on it allows users to play games, follow training exercises, listen to music, watch films and television, read newspapers, and take part in competitions. Its designers built in both active and passive modes, so a resident can engage in physical movement—say, throwing a ball at an image of a winking person—or simply absorb cognitive stimulation by studying historical photographs or playing digital memory games. Crucially, the screen is large enough for several people to watch and participate simultaneously, turning a solitary device into a communal gathering point. Earlier evaluations of the same technology in Danish municipalities had hinted at benefits: better memory, greater well-being, and a calming effect on confused and wandering residents when soothing videos were displayed. The Norwegian team set out to test whether those indications would hold up over a full year of systematic observation.

The study adopted a quasi-experimental pre–post design—there was no control group, because random assignment was judged neither feasible nor ethical in such a vulnerable population—and embedded qualitative components throughout. Ten residents from two wards of a medium-sized municipal nursing home housing roughly sixty people took part: nine women and one man, aged 72 to 90 with an average age of 86, all carrying a medically confirmed diagnosis of dementia. Residents with acute illness, severe sensory impairments such as blindness or profound hearing loss, or an inability to provide assent were excluded. Before the screen was installed, and again one year later, staff administered a battery of standardized instruments. The IPLOS assessment, Norway’s national Individual-based Care and Support Statistics tool built on the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning framework, rates sixteen functional variables plus vision and hearing on a scale from 1, fully functioning, to 5, fully dependent. The OBS-Dementia instrument tracks seven domains—orientation, memory, language and communication, perception and understanding, self-help, emotional functioning, and social functioning—across 24 indicators scored from 0, severely impaired, to 6, normal. Nursing staff also measured walking speed, grip strength, and the time needed to rise from and return to a chair, while semi-structured interviews with residents, relatives, and staff captured the subjective side of well-being.

Because every session was documented in a structured logbook—the date, time, duration, activity type, number of participants, and a four-point satisfaction rating—the researcher could dissect not only whether the screen worked, but under what conditions. The baseline data painted a familiar picture. Of the seven residents interviewed before the intervention, six described themselves as happy or very happy, yet 91 percent of employees believed residents were often or very often bored. Mornings were singled out as long and uneventful. “Due to other staff tasks, the residents may be left sitting alone in the living room for a while in the morning – then they fall asleep easily, which has a negative effect on their night’s sleep,” one employee reported. Another was blunter: “If there are no activities left to do, they sit in the living room and watch TV.”

Over the twelve-month intervention, 266 sessions were logged. In 40 percent of them, residents said they were satisfied; in another 34 percent, very satisfied. Only 1 percent flopped outright. Beneath the averages, clear patterns emerged. Timing mattered: two-thirds of all sessions took place in the late morning, and morning sessions were the most successful of the day. Length mattered less than expected—sessions ran anywhere from 2 to 180 minutes, with 88 percent falling between 30 and 60 minutes, and satisfaction peaked at 31 to 45 minutes, although a Spearman correlation analysis found no statistically significant association between duration and satisfaction, prompting the author to urge caution about cause and effect. Group size cut the other way: nearly half of all sessions were one-on-one with a staff member, and as groups grew larger, the share of satisfied participants fell steadily. Frequent attendees also tended to report greater satisfaction, though the researcher notes the causality could run in either direction—happier residents may simply come back for more.

What residents did on the screen mattered as much as how often. Sessions built around music and reminiscence—listening to familiar songs, singing together, watching well-known television programs, browsing historical photographs—were rated the most engaging of all. Competitive games, including the physical ones in which residents throw objects at targets on the screen, were repeatedly singled out as motivating. “The residents are still competitive, and competitions for the highest score are popular,” one staff member observed. The failures were equally instructive: cognitively or physically demanding activities such as “catching mice” or “swatting flies” on screen consistently underperformed, and staff distilled the lesson into a single line: “What they don’t master becomes boring.” Sessions containing an element of physical engagement—41 percent of the total—generally produced higher satisfaction. And linking the logbook to the dementia assessments revealed a final twist: residents with more advanced dementia were more likely to rate sessions “very satisfied,” while those with milder impairment more often settled for “satisfied”—suggesting the screen has something to offer across the spectrum of the disease.

After a year, self-reported happiness had shifted almost uniformly upward. Every participant reported feeling fairly happy, happy, or very happy; no one reported being unhappy. One resident who had described herself as not happy at baseline now reported feeling fairly happy; another climbed from happy to very happy; only one slipped, from very happy to happy. Relatives and staff corroborated the trend. Staff said residents “recognize the screen, and … associate it with something positive,” that it “encourages engagement in singing, and stimulates talking and laughter,” and that “increased physical activity creates a better social environment.” The technology also handed residents a measure of control they had never explicitly asked for but came to value: a more active role in choosing their own entertainment. And crucially for hard-pressed care budgets, the screen cost staff little. Most employees reported no increase in workload, and one reported a decrease—attributed to a fall in restlessness and challenging behavior. One cautionary note persisted, however: with advanced dementia, some residents occasionally failed to recognize the device at all, insisting they had never seen or used it before.

The harder question—whether the screen could slow the disease itself—yielded more equivocal results, and the researcher is careful to frame them as signals rather than proof. Dementia is progressive, so the purpose of the follow-up tests was not to look for improvement but to see whether decline was slower than expected. On the OBS-Dementia scale, the group’s mean score fell by 0.594 points over the year, with individual declines ranging from 0.19 to 0.97. Memory, orientation, and self-care deteriorated the most. But two domains defied the pattern. Emotional functioning declined only modestly, driven by reduced restlessness and disruptive behavior and a pronounced drop in anxiety—a finding that echoes the earlier Danish evaluations. The mood subcategory remained entirely stable, with equal numbers of residents improving and worsening. And social functioning improved outright, which staff attributed to increased participation in shared activities, greater initiative to socialize, and strengthened relationships between residents. When session counts were plotted against cognitive change, a weak negative correlation emerged: the more frequently a resident used the screen, the slower their measured decline—a tantalizing hint the study itself insists must be tested in far larger samples. Two participants even improved their grip strength; one of them was the facility’s single most enthusiastic screen user.

The author is candid about the study’s limits: ten residents, one nursing home, no control group, and an intervention whose frequency and content were never standardized into a fixed protocol. Early sessions also went partly unrecorded before logging routines settled in. Yet the findings land at a moment when governments are actively searching for exactly this kind of tool. Norway’s quality reform for older people, “A full life – all your life,” in force since 2019, explicitly frames everyday activity as a means of creating happiness and preventing disease, and one Norwegian analysis estimated that welfare technology could save the health sector up to 40,000 man-years—half of the projected shortfall in health personnel two decades from now. The study’s most practical message may be its simplest: the screen worked not by replacing human care but by extending it, adding moments of joy, competition, and song without adding work. Interactive technology, the paper concludes, is best understood as a complement to person-centered care, while newer tools incorporating artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality await rigorous trials of their own.

The study’s context is particularly relevant in an era where holistic care is becoming increasingly recognized as vital in nursing practices. Given the aging global population, understanding how to cater to the spiritual needs of residents in nursing homes is essential. This doesn’t merely encompass religious beliefs but also addresses individuals’ need for meaning, connection, and purpose. The research aims to equip healthcare teams with the skills necessary to provide this holistic type of care, which has been identified as crucial for enhancing the quality of life for elderly individuals in long-term care.

The methodology employed in this mixed methods study includes both qualitative and quantitative approaches, enriching the depth and breadth of the evaluations made. Through interviews, surveys, and observations, the research team collected data from various stakeholders within the nursing home environment, including care staff, residents, and family members. This comprehensive approach allows for a nuanced understanding of spirituality in the context of geriatric care, drawing on a range of personal experiences and professional insights.

One of the striking findings emerging from this study is the recognition among care staff of the importance of spiritual care. Many team members expressed a deeper connection to their work when they were able to engage with residents on a spiritual level. This not only improved their job satisfaction but also enhanced their empathy and compassion toward the residents. As they learned to recognize the spiritual dimensions of their care, their approach to resident interactions transformed, creating a more supportive and understanding environment.

The intervention in question involved training nursing home teams to develop skills in spiritual care, alongside encouraging open dialogue amongst staff and residents about spirituality. Such training included workshops, role-playing scenarios, and discussion groups, all aimed at fostering a supportive team environment. The results demonstrated that those who underwent this training felt more competent and confident in addressing the spiritual needs of their residents.

Furthermore, residents reported positive feedback about their care experiences when spirituality was taken into account. Many indicated that having staff who understood and catered to their spiritual preferences significantly improved their overall health and well-being. This reinforces the idea that spiritual care is not merely a supplementary aspect of nursing but is integral to comprehensive health care in nursing homes.

Overall, the study’s conclusions suggest that integrating spiritual care can lead to better health outcomes for residents, potentially reducing anxiety and depression levels, which are prevalent in long-term care settings. By addressing these spiritual needs, nursing homes can create an environment conducive to emotional, mental, and physical health, an alignment that healthcare professionals strive to achieve.

In addition to the benefits for residents, the study indicates that staff engagement in spiritual care can lead to reduced burnout. Providing care in a holistic manner helps professionals to connect meaningfully with their work, resulting in a more fulfilling career experience. This cycle of care can create a healthier, more resilient workforce in long-term care facilities, promoting retention rates among staff, which is particularly critical in the face of workforce shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The implications of this research extend beyond individual nursing homes to the healthcare system as a whole. Policymakers and healthcare administrators may consider implementing similar training programs in their facilities to meet the growing demand for comprehensive care. As the findings suggest, investing in spiritual care training could maximize not only the quality of life for residents but also improve job satisfaction and retention rates of healthcare staff.

Expanding on the global relevance of this research, the call for a more sophisticated approach to spiritual care can be heard worldwide. Different cultures and beliefs shape how spirituality is experienced and expressed, and this study highlights that a one-size-fits-all model cannot apply in this sensitive area. Each nursing home must tailor their approach to fit the diverse spiritual needs of residents from various backgrounds.

As healthcare continues to evolve to meet the needs of an aging population, this study illuminates the essential nature of spiritual care integration. It serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit in the journey of aging. The research advocates for nursing homes to embrace this holistic model, which ultimately leads to more meaningful and satisfying experiences for residents and caregivers alike.

In conclusion, the integrating of spiritual dimensions into long-term care represents a significant advancement in improving the emotional and psychological well-being of elderly residents. The researchers underscore the opportunity this presents for a shift in nursing care practice, promoting not only the dignity and respect of residents but also enriching the lives of those who care for them. As this study continues to gather attention, it is expected to inspire similar initiatives worldwide, marking a new era in nursing care that values spirituality as much as it does physical health.

The research invites further investigation into the long-term effects of spiritual care integration and its efficacy across various populations and regions. It challenges the healthcare community to reimagine what comprehensive care means in the context of aging, urging professionals to consider the spiritual wellness of those they serve while maintaining a standards-driven approach to physical healthcare.

As nursing homes and their staff implement these principles, the impact on the overall quality of care provided to aging populations can be profound. The establishment of a culture that respects and nurtures spirituality could lead to improved health outcomes and well-being for countless individuals. This study certainly sets the groundwork for future research and practice in a field that has the potential to transform lives.

Subject of Research: Integration of spiritual care in long-term nursing home care.

Article Title: Integrating the spiritual dimension in long-term care: a mixed methods evaluation of a multicomponent intervention for nursing home teams.

Article References:

Amerongen, N.Fv., Persoon, A., Bronkhorst, E. et al. Integrating the spiritual dimension in long-term care: a mixed methods evaluation of a multicomponent intervention for nursing home teams.
BMC Nurs (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12912-025-04089-3

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1186/s12912-025-04089-3

Keywords: Spiritual care, long-term care, nursing homes, elder care, comprehensive health, mixed methods research.

The embracing of mindfulness as a therapeutic tool has gained considerable traction in various clinical settings. Mindfulness, defined as the psychological process of bringing one’s attention to experiences occurring in the present moment, offers a multitude of benefits. For older adults, incorporating mindfulness practices can lead to reduced stress levels, improved emotional regulation, and a greater sense of connection to the present. However, conventional mindfulness programs often lack the flexibility and personal relevance needed for implementation in diverse nursing home environments.

To address these gaps, the research team focused on co-design principles, which prioritize collaboration between researchers and end-users. In this study, older adults from various nursing homes were actively engaged in the design of the intervention. This participatory approach not only empowers the participants but also increases the likelihood of adherence and success, as the intervention is crafted around their lived experiences and specific needs. By gathering feedback at each stage of development, the team ensured that the final product would resonate with its users, thereby maximizing its potential impact.

Central to the co-design philosophy is the recognition that older adults are not merely passive recipients of care but rather crucial stakeholders in their own health and well-being. Participants contributed insights that illuminated the barriers they face, including cognitive decline, physical limitations, and social isolation. Such realities are often overlooked in generic mental health interventions. By addressing these factors, the research team aimed to create a mindfulness program that is relevant and accessible to older adults in nursing homes.

The methodological framework utilized in this research encompassed several stages, beginning with the identification of key themes through in-depth interviews and focus groups. These discussions revealed a strong desire among participants for an approach that was not only practical but also engaging. Many older adults expressed that traditional mindfulness techniques felt alienating or unrelatable. This feedback shaped the intervention’s design to incorporate elements that reflect their daily lives and interests, promoting a sense of ownership over the process.

In addition to direct input from participants, the research team also consulted with caregivers, nursing home staff, and mental health professionals. This collaborative effort ensured that the intervention was grounded in a holistic understanding of each resident’s needs. Interdisciplinary perspectives lent richness to the intervention, offering a comprehensive view that recognizes the complex interplay of psychological, social, and environmental factors affecting older adults.

The final product of this rigorous co-design process is a digital mindfulness program tailored explicitly for the nursing home setting. The digital platform offers a range of mindfulness exercises, tailored sessions, and educational materials aimed at enhancing understanding and practice of mindfulness in daily life. Features such as adaptive difficulty levels and customizable content were included based on user feedback to cater to diverse cognitive and physical capabilities.

Moreover, the program integrates interactive elements that encourage social engagement among participants, counteracting the pervasive feelings of loneliness often reported by older adults in nursing care. Utilizing video conferencing technology for group mindfulness sessions not only diminished barriers to participation but also fostered community bonds among users. By encouraging group participation, the intervention serves a dual purpose of enhancing mindfulness while simultaneously building social connections.

As the pilot implementation of the program commenced, preliminary findings indicated promising outcomes in user engagement and satisfaction. Participants reported increased interest in mindfulness practices and greater openness to incorporating these techniques into their daily routines. Caregivers observed positive shifts in residents’ mood and interactions, suggesting that the program may cultivate a more supportive environment within nursing homes.

The implications of this research extend beyond the immediate benefits to participants. By establishing a methodology that emphasizes co-design in mental health interventions, the study makes significant contributions to the field of geriatric care. It presents a scalable model that can be adapted and replicated across various healthcare settings and populations. The emphasis on person-centered approaches aligns with contemporary healthcare paradigms, advocating for the inclusion of patient voices in designing effective interventions.

In conclusion, the development of a digital mindfulness-informed intervention for older adults in nursing homes represents a significant advancement in mental health care for this vulnerable population. This innovative research underscores the potential of participatory co-design processes to create impactful, contextually relevant interventions that resonate with users. As mental health awareness continues to evolve, such initiatives will be vital in ensuring that older adults receive the comprehensive care they deserve, fostering wellness and connection in their later years.

By integrating mindfulness practices that reflect the realities of older adults in nursing homes, this intervention aims not only to improve mental health outcomes but also to empower participants, giving them a sense of agency and belonging. The commitment to understanding and addressing the unique challenges faced by this demographic showcases a promising direction in geriatric mental health research, laying the groundwork for future innovations.

Subject of Research: Development of mindfulness-informed interventions for older adults in nursing homes.

Article Title: Development of a (digital) mindfulness-informed intervention for older adults in nursing homes: description and reflection of a person-based co-design approach.

Article References:

Michaelsen, M.M., Uhl, J., Mindrup, L. et al. Development of a (digital) mindfulness-informed intervention for older adults in nursing homes: description and reflection of a person-based co-design approach. BMC Geriatr 25, 703 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-025-06223-x

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1186/s12877-025-06223-x

Keywords: mindfulness, older adults, nursing homes, mental health, co-design, intervention.