Supporting relationships between people with dementia and caregivers with touchscreen technology

In Quest of Tablet Apps for Elders With Alzheimer's Disease

“…Apps for tablet computers developed in recent years have great potential to provide a variety of interactive multi-sensory activities for this population. [12][13][14][15][16]19 However, it was challenging to find an app suitable for use by older adults with dementia. The search for apps with the keywords "Alzheimer's" or "dementia" often leads to a large number of apps that focus only on knowledge about dementia, medical information, caregivers' tools, and disease prevention and management.…”

“…[11][12][13] Handheld tablet computers make apps easily accessible without the restriction of time and place. [14][15][16] Furthermore, the customizable capabilities of computers allow users to engage in activities as many times as they want, adjust the pace of interaction, and change the level of challenge. [12][13][14][15][16] Cueing and timed repetitions are effective strategies in improving automatic procedural memory in older adults with dementia.…”

“…[14][15][16] Furthermore, the customizable capabilities of computers allow users to engage in activities as many times as they want, adjust the pace of interaction, and change the level of challenge. [12][13][14][15][16] Cueing and timed repetitions are effective strategies in improving automatic procedural memory in older adults with dementia. 17,18 Tablet apps may have great potential to provide activities to older adults with dementia that are cognitively stimulating, emotionally enjoyable, and socially connective.…”

“…17,18 Tablet apps may have great potential to provide activities to older adults with dementia that are cognitively stimulating, emotionally enjoyable, and socially connective. [12][13][14][15][16]19 However, some of the largest barriers to activity engagement are the cognitive and functional impairments associated with Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, that causes memory loss and creates difficulties in thinking, problem solving, or language ability. The disease affects one in nine people over the age of 65 years and about a third of those aged 85 years and older.…”

“…19,23,24 Thus, it is critical that activities are person-centered and individualized to their interests as well as their abilities so that older adults with dementia can engage in computer activities despite cognitive or physical impairment. 2,10,12,15,16,24,25 Furthermore, according to a recent initiative regarding person-centered care for persons with dementia, 26,27 activities for this population need to be relevant, meaningful, and personalized. Person-centered care emphasizes respect for individuals' uniqueness, capitalizes on their preserved strengths and capabilities, and empowers them to choose activities that meet both their needs and abilities.…”