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Sammanfattning

Background: A number of studies suggest that people who live with dementia feel lonely and understimulated. In the last few years, it has thus been an increased focus on strengthening the quality of life for people who are living in care homes by introducing different forms of occupational therapy and arts based approaches. Clowning in dementia care is one of the newest and most unrecognised interventions developed with the intetion to increase quality of life and well-being. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop knowledge about the potential of clowning in Norwegian care homes when the goal is to promote joy and increase the quality of life of the people who live with dementia. Method: Observation was used as the main method in this study. The observations are to a large degree qualitative, but a short observation tool was developed to capture how the residents responded emotionally to the visits from the clowns (Klokkeklovnene). Qualitative interviews with the staff were also carried out. Results: The study shows that most residents responded positively to the visits from the clowns. Of the 163 meetings that were observed, 105 residents expressed an improved mood during and after the clowns’ visit. Klokkeklovnene add vitality, life, activity and creativity to Norwegian care homes and contribute to give the individuals who live there, positive stimuli, the opportunity to use inherent resources and to express themselves creatively. Conclusion: This study does not provide the basis for absolute conclusions, but in the light of Siri Ness’ definition, where quality of life is based on the presence of positive experiences and positive feelings, much indicate that Klokkeklovnene have a unique potential to improve the quality of life of the residents at Norwegian care homes.

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