Assistive technology (AT) with context-aware computing and artificial intelligence capabilities can be applied to address cognitive and communication impairments experienced by persons with dementia (PwD). This paper aims to provide an overview of current literature regarding some characteristics of intelligent assistive technology devices (IATDs) for cognitive and communicative impairments of PwD. It also aims to identify the areas of impairment addressed by these IATDs.A multi-faceted systematic search strategy yielded records. Predefined criteria were applied for inclusion and data extraction. Thereafter data was thematically analysed and synthesised. This review demonstrates that almost all of the research involving IATDs has focused on cognitive impairments of PwD and has not yet evolved past the conceptual or prototype stages of development. Summaries of commercially available IATDs for PwD and relevant prototypes are provided at the end of this review. This research concluded that IATDs for PwD targeting cognition and communication problems primarily focus on social robots, and that they address cognitive impairments of attention, affect, and social-pragmatic communicative impairments. Future research endeavours concerning AT for PwD should explore collaboration between computer engineering and health practitioners to address the identified gaps. This may contribute to the available information for evidence-based decision making for PwD.Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is beneficial to support the degenerative cognitive-communication difficulties experienced by PwD (Fried-Oken et al., 2015). As a scientific field of clinical practice, AAC applies evidence-based techniques and strategies that offer communication support through unaided or aided systems (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association [ASHA], n.d). Unaided systems do not require any tools, devices or technology but the use of one's body (e.g. manual signs, facial expressions) (ASHA, 2019). Aided systems are tools or devices, which are further categorised as either non-electronic, paper-based solutions (e.g. picture communication books) or electronic, technologically dependent devices (e.g. computer technology) (ASHA, n.d.;Waller, 2019). AAC may also include assistive devices to augment natural communication abilities and to support communication and companionship, promote relationships and thereby reduce social isolation of PwD (Evans et al., 2011;Goodall et al., 2020).AAC interventions for PwD compensate for, maintain, or enhance memory, communication functions and participation in life activities for PwD. For instance, AAC interventions focus on the strengths of the PwD (e.g. reading skills) to support memory (e.g. pictures with written labels as visual aids/reminders) (Lanzi et al., 2017). The majority of AAC interventions for PwD still involve the use of non-electronic systems. However, there is a shift to exploring technology with natural language processing (computer algorithms that can analyse, adapt, supplement, or gener...
