The Psychosocial Impacts of Multimedia Biographies on Persons With Cognitive Impairments

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this feasibility pilot project was to observe Alzheimer ' s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) patients ' responses to personalized multimedia biographies (MBs). We developed a procedure for using digital video technology to construct DVD-based MBs of persons with AD or MCI, documented their responses to observing their MBs, and evaluated the psychosocial benefi ts. Methods: An interdisciplinary team consisting of multimedia biographers and social workers interviewed 12 family members of persons with AD and MCI and collected archival materials to best capture the families ' and patients ' life histories. We fi lmed patients ' responses to watching the MBs and conducted follow-up interviews with the families and patients at 3 and 6 months following the initial viewing. Qualitative analytic strategies were used for extracting themes and key issues identifi ed in both the fi lmed and the interview response data. Results: Analysis of the interview and video data showed how evoked long-term memories stimulated reminiscing, brought mostly joy but occasionally moments of sadness to the persons with cognitive impairments, aided family members in remembering and better understanding their loved ones, and stimulated social interactions with family members and with formal caregivers. Implication: This study demonstrates the feasibility of using readily available digital video technology to produce MBs that hold special meaning for individuals experiencing AD or MCI and their families.

Towards a More Social Orientation in Gerontechnology: Case Study of the “Reminiscence Stick”

“…The results of our study are supported by research about the impacts of reminiscence technology conducted by Damianakis, Crete-Nishihata, Smith, Baecker, and Marziali (2010), where multimedia biographies were made with persons with memory diseases. They reported, for instance, that reminiscence had direct impacts on the memory and mood, and that long-term memories stimulated social interactions and aided family members and caregivers in better understanding their loved ones.…”

Evidence of what works to support and sustain care at home for people with dementia: a literature review with a systematic approach

“…For example, Damianakis et al [97] (M) found that participatory development of multimedia biographies stimulated memories and enhanced social stimulation, but involved huge time investment of participants, including researchers. They concluded that it was probably not cost effective, and warn against over-complex and intensive interventions.…”

Computing technologies for reflective, creative care of people with dementia

“…During team meetings, carers can use other apps to support reflection about resident reminiscing [Damianakis et al 2009], behaviour and the care given. They can reflect together about the observed behaviour of residents using the portable Digital Life History app that is a digital equivalent to physical scrapbooks that use photographs and written notes, see Figure 2.…”