Best Practice Guidance
Human Interaction with Technology in Dementia

Recommendations

Practical, cognitive & social factors to improve usability of technology for people with dementia

Technologies are increasingly vital in today’s activities in homes and communities. Nevertheless, little attention has been given to the consequences of the increasing complexity and reliance on them, for example, at home, in shops, traffic situations, meaningful activities and health care services. The users’ ability to manage products and services has been largely neglected or taken for granted. People with dementia often do not use the available technology because it does not match their needs and capacities. This section provides recommendations to improve the usability of technology used in daily life, for meaningful activities, in healthcare and in the context of promoting the Social Health of people with dementia.
Technology for meaningful activities

Creating a suitable user experience and design

Screenshot of Thinkability app

Guidance

When developing new digital applications, ensure you generate an optimal user experience and focus on sophisticated design including clear signposting and, an easy and intuitive navigation.

Explanation and example

People using the iCST app valued the sophisticated, mature design and the clear navigation but noted the need for clearer buttons. The design should have a highly professional look and feel and be clearly orientated to adults not children.

Type of evidence

Harleen Rai (INDUCT ESR5)

Development process of the iCST application

References

Rai, H. K., Griffiths, R., Yates, L., Schneider, J., & Orrell, M. (2021) Field-testing an iCST touch-screen application with people with dementia and carers: a mixed method study. Aging & Mental Health, 25:6, 1008-1018. https://doi.org/10.1080/13607863.2020.1783515

Useful links

www.thinkability.eu