Selecting apps for people with mild dementia: Identifying user requirements for apps enabling meaningful activities and self-management

Yjf Kerkhof, A Bergsma, Mjl Graff, R M Dröes, Yjf Kerkhof, A Bergsma, Mjl Graff, R M Dröes

Abstract

Touchscreen devices (e.g. tablets) can be supportive for people with mild dementia. This study identified user requirements for the development of a tool for selecting usable apps in the domains of self-management and meaningful activities. Eight focus groups with people with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia and informal carers were conducted using an exploratory study design. In study one, we identified meaningful activities and self-management support. In study two, we explored needs, wishes and abilities regarding the use of apps. The outcomes were analysed using inductive content analysis based on grounded theory. Three categories were identified in study one: (1) past meaningful activities, (2) present meaningful activities and (3) self-management support. Two categories emerged from the data of study two, with two and three themes, respectively. (1) Needs and wishes of users with regard to (a) the functionality of apps and (b) technical features of apps. (2) Abilities of users in terms of (a) physical and cognitive condition, (b) independent use of apps on a tablet and (c) skills to use the touchscreen and tablet. Based on these results, we will develop filters for people with mild dementia to select apps which match their individual needs, wishes and abilities.

Keywords: Age in place; activities of daily living; assistive technology; design requirements; independent living.

Conflict of interest statement

The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Requirements-based assessment tool.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Dutch history app (En Toen Lite), ©Stichting entoen.nu.
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
WordBreaker HD, ©Douze Dix.
Figure 4.
Figure 4.
Wordsearch Deluxe HD, ©2012–2017 Akarus.

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