Staff, caregivers and family members’ experiences and perceptions of Intergenerational Programmes inclusive of people living with dementia: A qualitative evidence synthesis protocol

Background Opportunities for social engagement for people living with dementia are often limited due to a lack of understanding and empathy, as well as stigma associated with dementia. Intergenerational (IG) programmes are formal activities which bring generations together meaningfully. Although benefits of IG programmes have been reported for people living with dementia, more research is needed to understand these programmes and their effects. Specifically, while a recent qualitative evidence synthesis (QES) reported on experiences and perceptions of people living with dementia and young people, of IG programmes (Houghton et al. , 2022), there has been limited work synthesising research on the perspectives of healthcare staff, teachers, family members, and informal carers regarding their involvement. Including the range of perspectives from other parties is essential in understanding the nature and potential benefits of such programmes, as well as in identifying design considerations for future IG programmes in Ireland. Methods This is a protocol for a QES of peer-reviewed qualitative papers addressing the experiences and perceptions of healthcare staff, teachers, family members, and informal carers regarding IG programmes inclusive of people living with dementia. A systematic search of 7 databases will be conducted, as well as backward and forward citation checks. Two authors will independently screen texts for inclusion. It is anticipated that thematic synthesis will be used for all included studies. The methodological limitations of studies will be assessed using an adapted CASP tool and confidence in the review findings using GRADE CERQual. Discussion IG programmes involve engagement across multiple parties. Developing an understanding of the perspectives of all involved is critical in identifying factors contributing to successful IG programmes, and informing the design and implementation of future IG programmes. This QES will extend the literature and provide key considerations to guide the design and delivery of future IG programmes in Ireland.