Exploring enjoyable activities using touch screen computer technology

with people with dementia living independently

Sarah Kate Smith Supervised by: Professor Gail Mountain, Sheffield

Dr Rebecca Hawkins, Leeds Dr Brenda Gannon, Manchester

Study Rationale

02/06/2014 © The University of Sheffield

Most frequently identified unmet need is something enjoyable to do

during the day

Important as these aspects are wellbeing depends on more than

feeling safe & secure

Neglecting all that is retained, enjoyed and done well

Two thirds of people with a diagnosis of dementia live at home

63% of people with dementia are also living with depression

Interventions using technology focus on safety & security

concerns and carer reassurance

Research focus remains on deficits & losses associated with

the condition

Majority of research undertaken in residential care setting

Why touch-screen technology?

02/06/2014 © The University of Sheffield

Non-stigmatising, positive self

image

Contemporary, popular

Intuitive, no prior

knowledge required

Holistic, adaptive &

flexible

Study 1 Charity based group providing a meeting place for people with

dementia living in the community and respite for carers

Twelve participants in the moderate to later stages took part

Applications uploaded to technology based on familiar activities observed

Sessions were video recorded and took place over 4 weeks

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Enjoying the activities

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Independent & shared interest

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Increased conversation

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Fun & laughter

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Limited engagement

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Study 1 main findings

The majority of participants enjoyed interacting with the technology and each other in a group context

Some preferred not to engage for extended periods of time.

Familiarity of the technology and applications was observed within sessions but was limited between sessions.

02/06/2014 © The University of Sheffield

02/06/2014 © The University of Sheffield

Study 2 12 participants in the earlier stages of the condition Technology personalised based on individual requirements Preliminary results suggest technology can facilitate enjoyable activity Strong indication that social contact is paramount

Meaningful quotes ‘I’m not as thick as I thought I was’

‘We’ve all spent the morning learning new things’

‘She’s a smart one she is’

‘This game is designed to help your memory isn’t it?’

‘I cant wait to tell my great-grandchildren that I’ve been using an iPad’

02/06/2014 © The University of Sheffield