Identifying workplace supports and interventions for employees living with neurodegenerative cognitive impairment: A rapid review

BackgroundAs people work to older ages, there is greater risk of age-related morbidities developing whilst in employment. Age-related dementia, cognitive impairment, or young-onset dementia may be diagnosed during an individual's working life.ObjectiveThis rapid review aimed to identify and synthesise the types of supports and interventions described or implemented for people diagnosed whilst working.MethodsA rapid review was conducted with searches across three databases: MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Scopus and grey literature sources. Articles were screened against the inclusion criteria.ResultsFifteen articles and five grey literature sources met the inclusion criteria. The literature originated from high-income settings in Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia. The evidence base was predominantly qualitative and exploratory. Identified supports were grouped by type and level: individual (reasonable adjustments, assistive technology), relational (colleague, managerial and HR support; training), and organisational (policy, legal frameworks, multi-agency coordination, including occupational health). Identified support measures were either implemented in practice or recommended.ConclusionThe review identified a foundation of workplace support for employees living with neurodegenerative cognitive impairment. However, both the type of support available and its implementation varied across employers. Greater consistency in the provision of support is needed to ensure that employees' needs are met during a period of considerable workplace uncertainty. Individual, relational, and organisational supports may extend workforce participation and promote wellbeing among people living with neurodegenerative cognitive impairment. Embedding support across multiple levels may help workplaces advance inclusive employment practices that recognise and accommodate neurodegenerative cognitive impairment.