A semi-automated approach for analyzing collages to inform the design of a family health information management system for Hispanic dementia caregivers

Abstract

Culturally- and linguistically-tailored health communication is needed for vulnerable populations to manage their health and the health of their families. This presents a significant design challenge. The use of collages is an increasingly popular technique with the flexibility to capture the needs and experiences of individuals with various cultural and language preferences. Collage analysis has typically remained qualitative in nature. We introduce a novel, objective, semi-automated approach that enhances collage analysis to elucidate pattern differences that may not be detectable by natural perception. We present a case scenario of collage analysis based on the expressed experience and self-management needs of Hispanic dementia caregivers (n = 24). We demonstrate how our innovative approach may reveal cultural differences between language groups that could have otherwise been missed using traditional techniques.

Keywords: Caregivers; Collage analysis; Dementia; Hispanic; Information visualization.

Figure 1

Overview of Methods

Figure 2

Images Used in => 70% Collages

Figure 3

Collages Grouped by Jaccard Coefficient for Similarity

Figure 4

Perimeter (continuous line forming the outermost boundary of collage). The Y axis represent the Spanish- and English-speaking participants. The X axis represents the length of the perimeter around each participant’s collage. The red line demarcates the Spanish-speakers from the English-Speakers. The rectangles are images of the participants’ collages.

Figure 5

Diameter (longest transverse distance passing from side to side through the center of collage). The Y axis represent the Spanish- and English-speaking participants. The X axis represents the diameter of each participant’s collage. The red line demarcates the Spanish-speakers from the English-Speakers. The rectangles are images of the participants’ collages. The collages above the red line (Spanish-speaking) have longer, more varied diameters than the collages below the red line (English-speaking).

Figure 6

Angle (measure in degrees between collage diameter intersecting the x axis). The Y axis represent the Spanish- and English-speaking participants. The X axis represents the angle of each participant’s collage. The red line demarcates the Spanish-speakers from the English-Speakers. The rectangles are images of the participants’ collages. The collages’ angles above the red line (Spanish-speaking) have more variaiton than the collages below the red line (English-speaking).