The Online Life Story Book: A randomized controlled trial on the effects of a digital reminiscence intervention for people with (very) mild dementia and their informal caregivers

Reminiscence therapy delivery formats for older adults with dementia or mild cognitive impairment: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Reminiscence therapies are beneficial for people who have dementia or mild cognitive impairment and are widely used among older adults in service institutions and community health care. However, it is not clear which reminiscence therapy delivery format is the most effective.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate all reminiscence therapy delivery formats with regard to comparative cognitive function, depressive symptoms, quality of life and adherence, among people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment.

METHODS

Nine databases were searched systematically to screen pertinent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published as of March 7, 2025. The effects of and adherence to reminiscence therapy delivery formats were ranked by using a network meta-analysis based on frequentist approaches. The inconsistency between direct comparison and indirect comparison was examined by the node-splitting method. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) was calculated to rank probability of all reminiscence therapy delivery formats.

RESULTS

Fifty-three RCTs involving 4582 participants were included from 4363 records. Compared to the control groups, reminiscence therapy improved cognitive function, reduced depressive symptoms and improved quality of life and this differed according to delivery format. Digital reminiscence therapy had better effects relative to treatment as usual (SMD = 5.02, 95 % CI: 2.57, 7.48) was the highest ranking (SUCRA = 93.6 %) for cognitive function. Digital reminiscence therapy had better effects compared to treatment as usual (SMD = -5.98, 95 % CI: -10.67, -1.30) with highest ranking (SUCRA = 94.9 %) for depressive symptoms. Individual reminiscence therapy had better effects compared to treatment as usual (SMD = 5.15, 95 % CI: 3.61, 6.70) and ranked first (SUCRA = 98.3 %) for quality of life. Group reminiscence therapy was the best format compared to individual reminiscence therapy (SMD = 2.36, 95 % CI: 1.37, 4.06) and treatment as usual (SMD = 1.71, 95 % CI: 1.07, 2.73) with highest ranking (SUCRA = 95.6 %).

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that digital reminiscence therapy seems to be the most effective format for people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment and adherence is likely to be higher following group reminiscence therapy. Considering the limitations of this review, more comprehensive multi-group randomized controlled trials are warranted to compare the effects of and adherence to reminiscence therapy delivery formats for people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment.

REGISTRATION

This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024530754).

The CarerQol Instrument: A Systematic Review, Validity Analysis, and Generalization Reliability Study

Background/Objectives: The CarerQol instrument is used to measure the quality of life of informal caregivers and to assess the impact that caring for a dependent person has on them. The scale consists of two parts, CarerQol-7D, which measures the effects of informal care using two positive and five negative domains, and CarerQol-VAS, which measures happiness on a visual analog scale. Methods: In the present work, we conducted a systematic review of the instrument since its development in 2006, followed by a (convergent, clinical, and discriminative) validity analysis and a meta-analysis of the reliability of generalizing CarerQol. A total of 54 articles that used CarerQol were identified. Results: The instrument was found to have good convergent, clinical, and discriminant validity, although the average reliability coefficient was 0.67 (95% CI [0.56, 0.75]) for Cronbach's alpha coefficients and 0.62 (95% CI [0.04, 0.89]) for test-retest reliability coefficients, with a high degree of heterogeneity between the coefficients. Conclusions: According to the psychometric theory, CarerQol is a reliable instrument and can be used for exploratory purposes in the field of research, although it should be used with caution when making decisions in clinical practice.

Comparing the effectiveness of individual occupation-based reminiscence therapy at home and in a dementia care centre on cognitive function in older adults with mild dementia: a pilot randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The need for research on individual home therapies to promote continued community-dwelling among older adults with mild dementia is growing. This study aimed to compare the effects of individual occupation-based reminiscence therapy at home (IOBRT-H) and individual occupation-based reminiscence therapy in a dementia care centre (IOBRT-DCC) on cognitive function, depression, and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) among community-dwelling older adults with mild dementia.

METHODS

This study was a randomised controlled trial. Twenty-six community-dwelling older adults with mild dementia were randomised to the IOBRT-H (n = 13) and IOBRT-DCC (n = 13) groups. The intervention was conducted for 10 weeks, with one session a week and each session lasting 60 min for both groups. Cognitive function was assessed using the Allen Cognitive Level Screen (ACLS), depression with the short form of the Geriatric Depression Scale Korean version (SGDS-K), and IADL using the Seoul-Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (S-IADL).

RESULTS

Both the IOBRT-H and IOBRT-DCC groups showed significant improvements in ACLS scores (P < 0.01 and P < 0.01, respectively). The SGDS-K score decreased only in the IOBRT-H group (P < 0.01). Between the groups, the IOBRT-H group had significantly greater improvements in both ACLS and SGDS-K scores than the IOBRT-DCC group (P < 0.05 and P < 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study's results indicated the potential for applying IBORT-H as an intervention to improve cognitive function and reduce depression in community-dwelling older adults with mild dementia. We expect the findings of this study to serve as useful foundational data for developing home-visiting cognitive programs.

Digital Storytelling for People With Cognitive Impairment Using Available Mobile Apps: Systematic Search in App Stores and Content Analysis

BACKGROUND

Growing evidence suggests cognitive and social health benefits can be derived from digital storytelling for older adults with cognitive impairment. Digital storytelling apps offer the potential to serve as an on-demand, easy-to-access platform for enhancing cognitive abilities and promoting social well-being. Yet, despite the increasing quantity of such apps being available on the market, there is a gap in research investigating their quality.

OBJECTIVE

This app review aims to assess the digital storytelling apps available in the Chinese market and evaluate them in accordance with the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). The goal was to identify key features and evaluate the overall quality in the context of cognitively impaired users.

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted in both the Google Play store (Google LLC) and iTunes store (Apple Inc), using English and Chinese keywords. Apps were chosen according to specific criteria that included features, including (but not limited to) memory capture, story saving, cue-based reminiscing, and the ability to share stories or memories with others. The MARS was used by 3 individual researchers to independently assess app quality across several domains, such as engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information quality, for both Android and iOS apps.

RESULTS

From an initial screening of 297 apps, only 9 (3%) met the criteria for detailed evaluation using MARS. The reviewed apps featured capture memory, save, reminisce, and share functions, which are critical in supporting cognitive functions and enhancing user engagement. The analysis revealed patterns in platform diversity and geographical distribution of developers, with apps available on both iOS and Android. Memoirs of Life and Memorize: Diaries, Memories, Notes, Ideas, Timelines, Categories (Fair Apps Mobile) had the highest mean MARS scores of 3.35, indicating strong engagement, functionality, and information quality, while the lowest score was 2.33. The overall mean score across all apps was only 3.03 (SD 0.60), highlighting significant variation, particularly in information quality. User feedback also showed considerable variability, ranging from 0 comments for apps such as Grand Storyteller (VarIT Inc) and PWI Storyteller (Project World Impact, LLC) to as many as 5361 comments for FamilySearch, which received extensive positive reviews. This wide range of user feedback underscores the importance of continuous improvement and user-centered design, particularly in enhancing information quality and content accuracy.

CONCLUSIONS

The systematic search and evaluation highlight the diverse capabilities yet variable quality of digital storytelling apps available within the Chinese market, reflecting user experiences, satisfaction levels, and efficacy in supporting cognitively impaired users. While some apps excel in engagement and functionality, others need significant improvements in information quality and user interface design to better serve those with cognitive impairments. Future research is recommended to investigate regional limitations and features that would result in more inclusive and effective digital storytelling apps.

Non-Pharmacological Interventions in the Management of Dementia-Related Psychosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

As populations age globally, there is an increasing prevalence of dementia, with an estimated 153 million living with dementia by 2050. Up to 70% of people with dementia experience dementia-related psychosis (D-RP). Antipsychotic medications are associated with many adverse effects in older people. This review aims to evaluate the evidence of non-pharmacological interventions in managing D-RP.

METHOD

The search of Medline, EMBASE, Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Cochrane included randomised controlled trials that evaluated non-pharmacological interventions. Data extraction and assessment of quality were assessed independently by two researchers. Heterogenous interventions were pooled using meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 18 articles (n = 2040 participants) were included and categorised into: sensory-, activity-, cognitive- and multi-component-orientated. Meta-analyses showed no significant impact in reducing hallucinations or delusions but person-centred care, cognitive rehabilitation, music therapy, and robot pets showed promise in single studies.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Future interventions should be developed and evaluated with a specific focus on D-RP as this was not the aim for many of the included articles.

A systematic review of digital access to post-diagnostic health and social care services for dementia

OBJECTIVES

For many people with dementia and unpaid carers, using technology for care and support has become essential. Rapid proliferation of technology highlights the need to understand digital access to health and social care services for dementia. This mixed-methods systematic review aims to explore digital access to health and social care services for dementia, from the perspective of people with dementia and unpaid carers.

METHODS

Nine electronic databases were searched in May 2023 for qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method studies, published in English or German, focused on experiences of using technology-delivered health and social care services for people with dementia and unpaid carers. After removal of duplicates and screening, 44 empirical papers were included.

RESULTS

From the 44 studies, findings were grouped into five categories, highlighting experiences for people with dementia and unpaid carers: (1) Adapting to technology, (2) Inequalities and variations in outcomes, (3) Impact on caring, (4) Impact on health, and (5) Impact on relationships. Proliferation of technology in care access emphasised the need for quick adaptation to technology and examination of its impact. The impact of such service delivery has evidenced mixed findings. There were improvements in the health and wellbeing of people with dementia and unpaid carers, and benefits for their dyadic relationship. However, using technology for health and social care access is not always possible and is often reliant on unpaid carers for support. Lower tech-literacy, lack of equipment or money to buy equipment and poor internet connection can impact the potential for positive outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Technology can bring great benefits: social inclusion, improved service access and care. However, using technology in service delivery in dementia needs careful thought. Professionals and service providers need to be cognizant of the complex nature of dementia, and the benefits and challenges of hybrid service delivery.

Comparative efficacy of multiple non-pharmacological interventions for behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia: A network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Non-pharmacological interventions can improve the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD). However, the optimal non-pharmacological treatments remain controversial. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of multiple non-pharmacological methods and identify the optimal therapy for BPSD. Potential randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were searched and selected from 15 databases and sources from the inception of the databases until 1 October 2022. Two independent authors implemented study screening, data extraction, and methodological quality assessment. Primary outcome was reduction of Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). The secondary outcome were changes of Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD), the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI), the Quality of Life in Alzheimer's Disease (QoL-AD), the Abilities of Daily Living scale, and the Apathy Evaluation Scale. Meta-analyses were performed using STATA v15.0 and ADDIS v1.16.8. The GRADE approaches were utilised to evaluate evidence quality. The present study included 43 RCTs with 4978 participants. The global methodological quality of the RCTs was moderate. Regarding NPI reduction, with moderate-certainty evidence, exercise plus treatment as usual (TAU) outperformed TAU (mean difference [MD]: -7.13; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -13.22, -0.76) and ranked as the optimal treatment. For reduction in CSDD, with low- to moderate-certainty evidence, massage plus TAU (MD: -15.26; 95% CI: -20.13, -10.52) and music plus TAU (MD: -2.40; 95% CI: -4.62, -0.12) were associated with greater reduction compared with TAU. For reduction in CMAI, with moderate-certainty evidence, aromatherapy plus massage (MD: -15.84; 95% CI: -29.76, -2.42) and massage plus music (MD: -13.12; 95% CI: -25.43, -0.76) were significantly more effective than TAU. For improvement in QoL-AD, with critically low- to low-certainty evidence, there were no statistical differences between any of non-pharmacological treatments and TAU. Due to the limited number of included studies, network meta-analysis was not performed for other outcomes. In conclusion, non-pharmacological treatments are effective for overall symptoms, depression, and agitation. Exercise plus treatment as usual may be an optimal non-pharmacological intervention for improving the overall BPSD. This may help to guide patients, doctors, and policymakers.

The efficacy of dyadic interventions for community-dwelling people with dementia and their caregivers: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Most people with dementia live at home and depend on informal caregivers for care. Both caregivers and persons with dementia can experience negative psychological and behavioural effects as the disease progresses. Non-pharmacological interventions can alleviate these effects and dyadic interventions, involving both caregiver and person with dementia, may be particularly effective. In this systematic review, the effect of dyadic interventions involving community-dwelling persons with dementia and their informal caregivers was researched. This article is an update of a review of dyadic interventions up to 2012 (Van't Leven et al., 2013). Twenty-two randomized controlled trials published between January 2012 and March 2023 met eligibility criteria, representing 3857 dyads. Results of a meta-analysis showed no overall intervention effect. Thirteen studies reported positive intervention effects, 9 studies reported no intervention effects. Intervention content and participant characteristics and knowledge of the disease varied widely between the studies reviewed. Effective interventions were those that matched activities for the person with dementia to their interests and abilities and educating the caregiver about dementia and communication. Interventions of moderate length (3-4 months) tended to be more effective than longer or shorter interventions. Future studies should further explore the factors contributing to the effects of dyadic interventions.

Impact of digital assistive technologies on the quality of life for people with dementia: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Digital assistive technologies (DATs) have emerged as promising tools to support the daily life of people with dementia (PWD). Current research tends to concentrate either on specific categories of DATs or provide a generic view. Therefore, it is of essence to provide a review of different kinds of DATs and how they contribute to improving quality of life (QOL) for PWD.

DESIGN

Scoping review using the framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and recommendations from Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews.

DATA SOURCES

Cochrane, Embase, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science (January 2013 to May 2023).

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES

Completed scientific literature with a primary focus on DATs for PWD, perspectives of caregivers, family members or healthcare workers in relation to a PWD, people living in diverse settings and all severities of dementia.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Screening and data extraction were conducted, followed by quantitative and qualitative analyses using thematic analysis principles and Digital Therapeutics Alliance categories for DAT grouping.

RESULTS

The literature search identified 6083 records, with 1056 duplicates. After screening, 4560 full texts were excluded, yielding 122 studies of different designs. The DATs were categorised into digital therapeutics (n=109), patient monitoring (n=30), digital diagnostics (n=2), care support (n=2) and health system clinical software (n=1). These categories were identified to impact various aspects of QOL: preserving autonomy, engagement, and social interaction, health monitoring and promotion, improving activities of daily living, improving cognition, maintaining dignity, managing behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia and safety/surveillance.

CONCLUSIONS

Various DATs offer extensive support, elevating the QOL of PWD. Digital therapeutics are predominantly used for ageing-in-place and independent living through assistance with daily tasks. Future research should focus on less-represented digital health technology categories, such as care support, health & wellness or software solutions. Observing ongoing DAT developments and their long-term effects on QOL remains essential.

Digital Storytelling Intervention for Enhancing the Social Participation of People With Mild Cognitive Impairment: Co-Design and Usability Study

BACKGROUND

Community-based social participation has shown promise in delaying cognitive decline in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who are at risk of developing dementia. Although group storytelling interventions have proven effective, the need for a skilled workforce to support people with MCI can limit broader community implementation. Technology-based interventions may offer a solution to this limitation by replicating the abilities of therapists.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to co-design a digital storytelling intervention and evaluate its usability.

METHODS

This co-design process involved 3 stages, engaging people with MCI (n=12), their caregivers (n=4), and therapists (n=5) in Beijing, China. In the first stage, we used card sorting and voting methods to identify potential incentives for social participation and target the specific abilities that people with MCI wanted to enhance. In the second stage, we conducted brainstorming sessions with people with MCI and their caregivers to identify the potential features of a digital storytelling application named Huiyou ("meeting new friends" in Chinese). Finally, we assessed Huiyou's usability with people with MCI and therapists, leading to iterative improvements based on the usability findings.

RESULTS

We uncovered a crucial link between boosting the self-confidence of people with MCI and their ability to address social participation challenges. Notably, we identified memory improvement and enhanced language expression as key factors for effective communication with grandchildren. Subsequently, participants suggested features and interfaces to address these challenges, leading to the development of Huiyou, a group-based digital storytelling application featuring functions such as generating story materials, conducting memory retrieval activities, and sharing stories. It received an "excellent" rating in the User Experience Questionnaire benchmark, displaying high levels of attractiveness, dependability, stimulation, and novelty. People with MCI achieved an average task completion rate of 87% (n=19; SD 0.13) of the 22 tasks. However, feedback from people with MCI and therapists highlighted usability issues in navigation, activity management, user interface, and feature optimization, indicating a need for improved accessibility and efficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

The co-design approach contributed to developing the Huiyou prototype, supporting community-based social participation. User feedback highlighted the potential of Huiyou to enhance well-being and facilitate meaningful social interactions while maintaining crucial existing relationships.

Design requirements for a digital storytelling application for people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI)

Background

The current digital storytelling applications present advantages for individuals with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI); however, there exists a notable oversight regarding their potential to facilitate group-based storytelling activities with this population. This study endeavors to identify design requirements for a more inclusive and accessible digital storytelling tool for people with MCI.

Method

The methodological framework encompasses distinct stages, commencing with focus groups and interviews (Stage 1), followed by prototyping workshops (Stage 2) and qualitative prototype testing (Stage 3). The comprehensive three-stage research involved participants residing in Beijing, China, including 43 people with MCI aged 65-95 years (M = 79.09, SD = 8.99), with a mean Montreal Cognitive Assessment score of 21.91 (range = 18-26, SD = 2.40). Additionally, 17 care partners and 10 occupational or clinical therapists actively participated.

Result

The culmination of the three-stage research process has yielded 12 discernible key design requirements. Preferred storytelling themes center around narratives designed to elicit positive emotions. The narrative material generation process involves a systematic approach, unlocking memories through carefully formulated questions. In memory retrieval, users are provided with hints, bolstering confidence and perpetuating a semblance of face-to-face interaction. The focus in story sharing lies in transcending mere narration and extending it to a wider audience.

Conclusion

This case study centers on crafting a digital storytelling application to enhance social connections for people with MCI. It delves into crucial design requirements addressing memory challenges, emphasizing individual preparation and group sharing. The developed digital storytelling application demonstrates potential to offer valuable memory support and foster personal and collective connections. Future research will focus on formal testing to evaluate these outcomes.

Remembering the Past with Today's Technology: A Scoping Review of Reminiscence-Based Digital Storytelling with Older Adults

Reminiscence has been identified as a potentially effective intervention strategy for the mental health of older adults. It has been suggested that reminiscence work and subsequent production of a life storybook (e.g., DST: digital storytelling) is associated with improvements in the well-being of older adults. The specific objectives of this scoping review are to: (1) examine how reminiscence-based DST is conducted/used with older adults, (2) identify whether and how intergenerational engagement is included in this literature, and (3) report on the outcomes identified in this literature, including older adults as well as other participants such as co-creators and viewers of DST. A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute's methods and the Arksey and O'Malley framework examined studies published in English that included reminiscence with older adults and incorporated digital storytelling. The initial search resulted in 702 articles for review, and following screening, 35 studies were included for full-text review. A total of 10 articles specifically on reminiscence-based DST were identified for final review. Only one study intentionally included intergenerational engagement in its design. DST impacted older adults on their personal meaning and catharsis, social connectedness, cognitive function, and spiritual and emotional well-being. Impacts on reviewers and creators were also reported. Overall, the combination of individual reminiscence work with intergenerational engagement and the use of DST is largely understudied. Additional research is warranted given there is a credible evidence base for these types of interventions.

Digital storytelling intervention to enhance social connections and participation for people with mild cognitive impairment: a research protocol

Introduction

Interventions utilizing the principles of digital storytelling can improve cognitive ability by cultivating positive emotions and framing a new way to enhance social participation among people with mild cognitive impairment. However, existing research has understudied group-based storytelling, focusing instead on building individual stories and connections with family and friends. In response to this research gap, this paper proposes co-designing a digital storytelling intervention for people with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) to enhance their social participation and build meaningful connections.

Methods

We will conduct two co-design workshops with people with MCI (n = 12), their caregivers (n = 4-12), and therapists (n = 5) in Beijing, China, to facilitate the co-development of the digital storytelling application. During the first workshop, we will utilize card sorting and voting to define potential facilitators of social participation, identifying the abilities people with MCI want to improve through storytelling. During the second workshop, we will build on these findings to facilitate people with MCI and their caregivers to visualize the interfaces. After reflexive thematic analysis of the co-design workshops, we will develop a digital storytelling application and test its usability and efficacy among people with MCI and therapists, respectively. A single-blinded field test will be conducted with 20 community-dwelling adults with MCI (Age: 65+). The testing will consist of an intervention group of 10 participants who use the co-designed digital storytelling intervention and a control group of 10 participants who will not use the co-designed intervention on the waiting list. The intervention period will extend over 7 weeks, with individual intervention sessions lasting 30 min. We will evaluate its efficacy in terms of social participation, social connectedness, self-efficacy, subjective sense of happiness, and user experience of people with MCI.

Discussion

This study will examine an innovative digital storytelling intervention to enhance social participation among people with MCI. This study is expected to advance the concept of community-centric social groups in social health service contexts by integrating technological solutions with the self-identified needs and lived experiences of people with MCI, increasing the motivation of people with MCI to cultivate social participation.

Ethics and dissemination

Swinburne University of Technology's Human Research Ethics Committee gave ethics approval for this research (Approval Number: 20226525-11105; Date: 26/09/2022). Our findings shall be reported in peer-reviewed journal articles and at relevant conferences.

Digital Storytelling as an Intervention for Older Adults: A Scoping Review

The population of older adults is rapidly increasing worldwide. Owing to fewer interactions between generations, older adults experience ageism and various psychological issues, such as depression and loneliness. Digital storytelling (DST) has the potential to share vivid lived experiences, support the forming of social relationships, and lead to improved well-being. This scoping review examines the potential psychosocial benefits of individual DST interventions for older adults and people with dementia. We adopted the methodological framework for scoping reviews outlined in the Joanna Briggs Institute's (JBI) manual. A scoping review was performed using the following bibliographic databases: Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Research Information Sharing Service, and National Assembly Library. There were 395 references retrieved, of which 19 articles were selected after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our findings revealed that the most common effects of DST on older adults included the promotion of mental health, an increased amount of meaningful community connections, greater digital literacy, the mitigation of negative ageism, and enhanced intellectual ability. We suggest randomized controlled trials are conducted to confirm the efficacy of intergenerational DST intervention and the effects of DST interventions at multilevel outcomes, including the community level.