Developing a Research Agenda on Nature-Based and Animal-Assisted Intervention Strategies (NATAIS) in People With Neurodegenerative Diseases With a Specific Focus on Social Isolation and Loneliness

Introduction. Social isolation and feelings of loneliness are very prevalent in people with neurodegenerative diseases and are associated with a lower quality of life and other negative outcomes. These problems were increased during the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in initiatives to address social isolation. Given the potential benefits of nature-based and animal-assisted intervention strategies (NATAIS), it is crucial to further investigate if and how these might minimize negative effects of social isolation and feelings of loneliness in this population. Therefore, the aim was to develop a research agenda for NATAIS in people with neurodegenerative diseases, especially during challenging times, such as pandemics.

Methodology. To facilitate the development of the research agenda, a group concept mapping procedure was conducted. In total, 19 work group members participated through a combination of in-person and online group meetings. Additionally, face-to-face group sessions were held at two conferences, during which feedback was solicited from 12 experts in the field of NATAIS and psychogeriatrics.

Main Results. The group concept mapping procedure resulted in 14 clusters describing various future research topics, which were refined and detailed during group discussions. The remaining eleven clusters, encompassing important research themes within the field of NATAIS, were organized into a logic model and summarized into the research agenda. The overarching cluster ‘Ethical issues, possible risk factors, and their solutions’ were considered the most relevant during times of increased social isolation, such as during a pandemic, along with the necessity for ‘more accessible NATAIS’.

Principal conclusions and implications for the field: This project resulted in a research agenda, directing future research and fostering collaboration between practitioners and researchers in the field of NATAIS. Such an enhanced partnership between science and practice has the potential to significantly contribute to the well-being of people with neurodegenerative diseases, in their daily lives and also during pandemics.