This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (Intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The first objective is to give the best possible assessment of the effectiveness of a range of massage and touch therapies offered to patients suffering from dementia, given the body of published empirical studies of their effects. Since studies of such interventions are still relatively small and heterogenous it is likely that the conclusion on this question will be that there is not enough data of sufficient quality to give any assessment. However, the overview of the research available can make the review a valuable resource for the planning of future studies. Also any information on experienced harmful side effects or practical difficulties will be recorded and systematically presented.