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Zamir S, Allman F, Hennessy CH, Taylor AH, Jones RB. Aesthetically Designing Video-Call Technology With Care Home Residents: A Focus Group Study. Front Psychol 2021; 12:540048. [PMID: 33708152 PMCID: PMC7940828 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.540048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Video-calls have proven to be useful for older care home residents in improving socialization and reducing loneliness. Nonetheless, to facilitate the acceptability and usability of a new technological intervention, especially among people with dementia, there is a need for user-led design improvements. The current study conducted focus groups with an embedded activity with older people to allow for a person-centered design of a video-call intervention. Methods Twenty-eight residents across four care homes in the South West of England participated in focus groups to aesthetically personalize and ‘dress-up’ the equipment used in a video-call intervention. Each care home was provided with a ‘Skype on Wheels’ (SoW) device, a wheelable ‘chassis’ comprising an iPad or tablet for access to Skype, and a telephone handset. During the focus group, residents were encouraged to participate in an activity using colorful materials to ‘dress-up’ SoW. Comments before, during and after the ‘dress up’ activity were audio recorded. Framework analysis was used to analyze the focus group data. Results Older people, including seven with dementia were able to interact with and implement design changes to SoW through aesthetic personalization. Themes arising from the data included estrangement, anthropomorphism, reminiscence, personalization, need for socialization versus fear of socialization and attitudes toward technology. After this brief exposure to SoW, residents expressed the likelihood of using video-calls for socialization in the future. Conclusion Care home residents enjoy engaging with new technologies when given the opportunity to interact with it, to personalize it and to understand its purpose. Low cost aesthetic personalization of technologies can improve their acceptability, usability, and implementation within complex care environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Zamir
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Felicity Allman
- School of Medical Education, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - Adrian Haffner Taylor
- Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
| | - Ray Brian Jones
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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Zucchella C, Sinforiani E, Tamburin S, Federico A, Mantovani E, Bernini S, Casale R, Bartolo M. The Multidisciplinary Approach to Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia. A Narrative Review of Non-Pharmacological Treatment. Front Neurol 2018; 9:1058. [PMID: 30619031 PMCID: PMC6300511 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.01058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia are chronic diseases with progressive deterioration of cognition, function, and behavior leading to severe disability and death. The prevalence of AD and dementia is constantly increasing because of the progressive aging of the population. These conditions represent a considerable challenge to patients, their family and caregivers, and the health system, because of the considerable need for resources allocation. There is no disease modifying intervention for AD and dementia, and the symptomatic pharmacological treatments has limited efficacy and considerable side effects. Non-pharmacological treatment (NPT), which includes a wide range of approaches and techniques, may play a role in the treatment of AD and dementia. Aim: To review, with a narrative approach, current evidence on main NPTs for AD and dementia. Methods: PubMed and the Cochrane database of systematic reviews were searched for studies written in English and published from 2000 to 2018. The bibliography of the main articles was checked to detect other relevant papers. Results: The role of NPT has been largely explored in AD and dementia. The main NPT types, which were reviewed here, include exercise and motor rehabilitation, cognitive rehabilitation, NPT for behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, occupational therapy, psychological therapy, complementary and alternative medicine, and new technologies, including information and communication technologies, assistive technology and domotics, virtual reality, gaming, and telemedicine. We also summarized the role of NPT to address caregivers' burden. Conclusions: Although NPT is often applied in the multidisciplinary approach to AD and dementia, supporting evidence for their use is still preliminary. Some studies showed statistically significant effect of NPT on some outcomes, but their clinical significance is uncertain. Well-designed randomized controlled trials with innovative designs are needed to explore the efficacy of NPT in AD and dementia. Further studies are required to offer robust neurobiological grounds for the effect of NPT, and to examine its cost-efficacy profile in patients with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elena Sinforiani
- Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Unit, Laboratory of Neuropsychology, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefano Tamburin
- Neurology Unit, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Angela Federico
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisa Mantovani
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sara Bernini
- Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Unit, Laboratory of Neuropsychology, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Roberto Casale
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Department of Rehabilitation, HABILITA, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Bartolo
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Department of Rehabilitation, HABILITA, Bergamo, Italy
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Zamir S, Hennessy CH, Taylor AH, Jones RB. Video-calls to reduce loneliness and social isolation within care environments for older people: an implementation study using collaborative action research. BMC Geriatr 2018; 18:62. [PMID: 29499659 PMCID: PMC5833092 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-018-0746-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Older people in care may be lonely with insufficient contact if families are unable to visit. Face-to-face contact through video-calls may help reduce loneliness, but little is known about the processes of engaging people in care environments in using video-calls. We aimed to identify the barriers to and facilitators of implementing video-calls for older people in care environments. Methods A collaborative action research (CAR) approach was taken to implement a video-call intervention in care environments. We undertook five steps of recruitment, planning, implementation, reflection and re-evaluation, in seven care homes and one hospital in the UK. The video-call intervention ‘Skype on Wheels’ (SoW) comprised a wheeled device that could hold an iPad and handset, and used Skype to provide a free video-call service. Care staff were collaborators who implemented the intervention within the care-setting by agreeing the intervention, recruiting older people and their family, and setting up video-calls. Field notes and reflective diaries on observations and conversations with staff, older people and family were maintained over 15 months, and analysed using thematic analysis. Results Four care homes implemented the intervention. Eight older people with their respective social contacts made use of video-calls. Older people were able to use SoW with assistance from staff, and enjoyed the use of video-calls to stay better connected with family. However five barriers towards implementation included staff turnover, risk averseness, the SoW design, lack of family commitment and staff attitudes regarding technology. Conclusions The SoW intervention, or something similar, could aid older people to stay better connected with their families in care environments, but if implemented as part of a rigorous evaluation, then co-production of the intervention at each recruitment site may be needed to overcome barriers and maximise engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonam Zamir
- Drake Circus, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, England.
| | | | - Adrian H Taylor
- University of Plymouth Peninsula Schools of Medicine & Dentistry, ITTC Building, Tamar Science Park, Derriford, Plymouth, Devon, PL6 8BX, England
| | - Ray B Jones
- Drake Circus, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, England
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Ren M, Hu Z, Jain H. A conciliation mechanism for self-organizing dynamic small groups. SPRINGERPLUS 2016; 5:800. [PMID: 27390641 PMCID: PMC4916128 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-2516-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A group of individuals, organizations or things in internet of things (IoT) often dynamically self-organizes in small groups to accomplish certain tasks. This is common in virtual organization, social networks and the evolving field of IoT. These small groups have different behavioral characteristics than large groups. Members individually have some requirements and contribute some resources to the group. The organization and operation of such a group requires dynamic identification of group requirements that can be fulfilled by available resources and is approved by the group. We apply design science methods to develop an artifact that helps in conciliation of collective requirements and resources of small groups while maintaining each member’s satisfaction. The mechanism also supports dynamic conciliation as members leave and new members join the group. Each member’s requirement is specified as an explicit/implicit objective that is feasible/not feasible based on resources available to the group and whether the requirement is in alignment with other members’ objectives. We validate the artifact by using it for a manufacturing service group and simulating the change in collective group requirements and resources as group membership changes dynamically.
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Lazar A, Thompson HJ, Demiris G. Design Recommendations for Recreational Systems Involving Older Adults Living With Dementia. J Appl Gerontol 2016; 37:595-619. [PMID: 27106883 DOI: 10.1177/0733464816643880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As the population ages, an increasing number of people will be diagnosed with dementia. Studies have found that insufficient activities are offered in memory care units to people with dementia, even though people benefit tremendously from participating in recreational activities. Information and communication technologies (ICT) can potentially facilitate activities in this setting, yet there is little guidance for designers to develop systems that can support people with dementia in engaging in recreational activities. To fill this gap, recommendations were generated through fieldwork and refined in two rounds of expert feedback. Areas covered include hardware, content, applications, and navigation. Systems should be usable by people with dementia, in addition to staff, to counter disempowerment by not enabling people to use their full abilities. In addition, a diversity of materials is needed to appeal to individuals with dementia who have widely varying backgrounds, abilities, interests, and preferences.
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Boman IL, Persson AC, Bartfai A. First steps in designing an all-in-one ICT-based device for persons with cognitive impairment: evaluation of the first mock-up. BMC Geriatr 2016; 16:61. [PMID: 26951709 PMCID: PMC4782386 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-016-0238-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This project Smart Assisted Living involving Informal careGivers++ (SALIG) intends to develop an ICT-based device for persons with cognitive impairment combined with remote support possibilities for significant others and formal caregivers. This paper presents the identification of the target groups’ needs and requirements of such device and the evaluation of the first mock-up, demonstrated in a tablet. Methods The inclusive design method that includes end-users in the design process was chosen. First, a scoping review was conducted in order to examine the target group’s need of an ICT-based device, and to gather recommendations regarding its design and functionalities. In order to capture the users’ requirements of the design and functionalities of the device three targeted focus groups were conducted. Based on the findings from the publications and the focus groups a user requirement specification was developed. After that a design concept and a first mock-up was developed in an iterative process. The mock-up was evaluated through interviews with persons with cognitive impairment, health care professionals and significant others. Data were analysed using content analysis. Results Several useful recommendations of the design and functionalities of the SALIG device for persons with cognitive impairment were identified. The main benefit of the mock-up was that it was a single device with a set of functionalities installed on a tablet and designed for persons with cognitive impairment. An additional benefit was that it could be used remotely by significant others and formal caregivers. Conclusion The SALIG device has the potentials to facilitate everyday life for persons with cognitive impairment, their significant others and the work situation for formal caregivers. The results may provide guidance in the development of different types of technologies for the target population and for people with diverse disabilities. Further work will focus on developing a prototype to be empirically tested by persons with cognitive impairment, their significant others and formal caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga-Lill Boman
- University Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd Hospital, S-182 88, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Danderyd Hospital, S-182 88, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Ann-Christine Persson
- University Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd Hospital, S-182 88, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Aniko Bartfai
- University Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd Hospital, S-182 88, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Danderyd Hospital, S-182 88, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Virtual visits in home health care for older adults. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:689873. [PMID: 25506616 PMCID: PMC4258330 DOI: 10.1155/2014/689873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Revised: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This review identifies the content of virtual visits in community nursing services to older adults and explores the manner in which service users and the nurses use virtual visits. DESIGN An integrative literature review. METHOD Data collection comprised a literature search in three databases: Cinahl, Medline, and PubMed. In addition, a manual search of reference lists and expert consultation were performed. A total of 12 articles met the inclusion criteria. The articles were reviewed in terms of study characteristics, service content and utilization, and patient and health care provider experience. RESULTS Our review shows that in most studies the service is delivered on a daily basis and in combination with in-person visits. The findings suggest that older home-dwelling patients can benefit from virtual visits in terms of enhanced social inclusion and medication compliance. Service users and their nurses found virtual visits satisfactory and suitable for care delivery in home care to the elderly. Evidence for cost-saving benefits of virtual visits was not found. CONCLUSIONS The findings can inform the planning of virtual visits in home health care as a complementary service to in-person visits, in order to meet the increasingly complex needs of older adults living at home.
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Boman IL, Lundberg S, Starkhammar S, Nygård L. Exploring the usability of a videophone mock-up for persons with dementia and their significant others. BMC Geriatr 2014; 14:49. [PMID: 24739662 PMCID: PMC4031376 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2318-14-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Persons with dementia might have considerable difficulties in using an ordinary telephone. Being able to use the telephone can be very important in order to maintain their social network, getting stimulation and for reaching help when needed. Therefore, persons with dementia might need an easy-to-use videophone to prevent social isolation and to feel safe and independent. This study reports the evaluation of the usability of a touch-screen videophone mock-up for persons with dementia and their significant others. METHODS Four persons with dementia and their significant others tested the videophone mock-up at a living laboratory. In order to gain knowledge of the participants' with dementia ability to use their own computers and telephones, interviews and observations were conducted. RESULTS Overall, the participants had a very positive attitude towards the videophone. The participants with dementia perceived that it was useful, enjoyable and easy to use, although they initially had difficulties in understanding how to handle some functions, thus indicating that the design needs to be further developed to be more intuitive. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that the videophone has the potential to enable telephone calls without assistance and add quality in communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga-Lill Boman
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Division of Occupational Therapy, Karolinska Institutet, 141 83 Huddinge, Sweden.
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Boman IL, Nygård L, Rosenberg L. Users' and professionals' contributions in the process of designing an easy-to-use videophone for people with dementia. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2013; 9:164-72. [PMID: 24512219 DOI: 10.3109/17483107.2013.769124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a design concept for an easy-to-use videophone for people with dementia and to evaluate the design and need of such a product. METHOD In this project, we have used an inclusive design approach that includes the target users in the design process. In an earlier study, the need of a videophone was examined and a requirement specification was developed. In this study, a preliminary design concept was developed. Five focus groups of people with dementia, significant others and occupational therapists working with people with dementia were formed to capture their experiences, expectations and thoughts concerning the videophone and the design concept. Data were analysed using a grounded theory approach. FINDINGS The participants pointed out that the design of the videophone should be flexible in order to meet the needs of people with dementia, be easy-to-use and not look like assistive technology. In order to facilitate learning, the videophone should be introduced in an early stage of the disease. CONCLUSIONS A videophone has potentials to enable videophone calls without assistance, add quality in communication and provide possibilities for monitoring. Further work will focus on developing a prototype to be empirically tested by people with dementia and significant others. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION An easy-to-use videophone was viewed as an important device that could support people with dementia in making videophone calls without assistance. It was also viewed as a product that significant others could use for monitoring the person with dementia, for example to judge the well-being of the person. But monitoring should be used with caution and not without the consent of the person with dementia. It was viewed as important that the videophone be introduced in an early stage of the disease in order to facilitate learning, so that the person can get used to the new way of making telephone calls and incorporate the new habit in his/her routines. In order to motivate people with dementia to start using a videophone, it was recommended that the videophone should be introduced as a product which is a pleasure to use, and not as a compensation for impairment or to solve a problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga-Lill Boman
- Division of Occupational Therapy, Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden and
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