Background: Peer-to-peer bullying is common among older adults, and those with dementia are particularly vulnerable. It harms health and quality of life, while unclear guidelines leave nursing staff unprepared to respond. This study described caregivers’ strategies in managing bullying conflicts between older adults with dementia and cognitively intact peers.
Methods: Grounded in a constructivist perspective, this study used purposive sampling to recruit 20 caregivers from care facilities in Taiwan who had managed bullying cases involving older adults with dementia targeted by cognitively intact peers within the past year. Data were collected through 60-minute interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis.
Results: The strategy for resolving bullying involving older adults with dementia comprised three themes. Momentary crisis control involved modifying the environment and situation, de-escalating physical aggression, and calming emotional distress. Assessment focus emphasized monitoring conflict severity, assessing cognitive and emotional states, and identifying underlying causes of bullying behaviors. Peace promotion centered on impartial mediation, empathetic engagement, and education for caregivers and older adults.
Conclusions and Implications: Supporting older adults with dementia who experience bullying from cognitively intact peers requires an integrated approach grounded in crisis control, assessment, and harmony promotion. Practical guidelines are needed to help caregivers manage these interactions through person-centered, context sensitive strategies. Ongoing education is essential for implementing and sustaining these practices, fostering compassionate and supportive care environments.

Authors:
Jong-Ni Lin, Da-Yeh University, Taiwan
Cheng-Chen Chou, College of Nursing National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Jong-Ni Lin is an associate professor and also serves as the chair of both the Department of Nursing and Department of Postbaccalaureate Nursing at Da-Yeh University, Taiwan.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Tuesday Schedule

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