Acceptability of a lifelogging wearable camera in older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a mixed-method study

Abstract

Background: The main objective of this research was to evaluate the acceptance of technology based on a wearable lifelogging camera in a sample of older adults diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods: A mixed-method design was used, consisting of a self-report questionnaire, numerous images taken by users, and a series of focus group discussions. The patients were involved in an individualized training programme.

Results: Nine MCI patients and their caregiver relatives were included. They showed good acceptance of the camera and downloaded an appropriate number of images on a daily basis. Perceived severity and ease of use were the main factors associated with the intention to use the device.

Conclusions: Older adults with MCI can become competent users of lifelogging wearable cameras with a good level of acceptance. Privacy concerns are outweighed by the potential benefits for memory. Limitations, strengths and implications for future research are discussed.

Keywords: Acceptability; Lifelogging; Mild cognitive impairment; Mixed-method study; Technology.

Fig. 1

Training instruction sheets given to the patients, including instructions about the whole intervention programme procedure. Note: the images were created by the authors, except for the images of the battery, camera and laptop (sheet number 2), which were extracted from a website that provides a database of free pictures (www.pd4pic.com)

Fig. 2

Boxplot showing the distribution of the WTAH constructs for the sample. Note: The bottom and top vertical lines show the lower and upper scores. The top of the rectangle (dark grey colour) corresponds to the third quartile; the horizontal line near the middle of the rectangle indicates the median; the bottom of the rectangle (light grey colour) relates to the first quartile