[Dementia and technology. A study of technology interventions in the healthcare for dementia patients and their caregivers]

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the possibilities for IT interventions in care of older persons with dementia.

Method: Inventory of international and national studies on implemented technology interventions for the care of persons with dementia and their caregivers. Three categories of technology are distinguished: (1) help with symptoms of dementia (2) social contact and company for the patient, and (3) health monitoring and safety.

Results: Eighteen international and eight national studies are included. The first results of the effects of technology interventions for patients with dementia look promising. Evidence exists for significant improvements as to the quality of life and effects on behaviour (such as less falling). The caregivers and healthcare professionals are satisfied with the usability of the technology. The purchase and user costs, however, are often too high. The labour satisfaction of healthcare professionals in relation to the use of technology has rarely been studied.

Conclusion: Although technology can improve the ability to cope with certain consequences of dementia, the effects of technology for dementia patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals has not yet been extensively studied. Further research may focus on effects of technology for people with dementia and their caregivers as to their quality of life, feeling of safety and work satisfaction, respectively.