Experiences of people with Alzheimer’s disease, relatives, and dementia trainers on the usability of a tablet‐based dementia training

• Published in: Alzheimer's & dementia Vol. 18; no. S8
• Main Authors: Schüssler, Sandra, Zuschnegg, Julia, Paletta, Lucas, Russegger, Silvia, Fellner, Maria, Ploder, Karin, Strobl, Bernhard, Sekulic, Maja, Koini, Marisa, Hofmarcher‐Holzhacker, Maria, Roller‐Wirnsberger, Regina
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.12.2022
• ISSN: 1552-5260; 1552-5279
• DOI: 10.1002/alz.062111

Background Non‐pharmacological interventions for people with dementia, like tablet‐based cognitive trainings, are increasingly popular to counteract the disease progression. Usability research on such trainings in the field of dementia is essential to raise acceptance and increase training intensity, as regular practice may contribute to their effectiveness. The aim was to explore the experiences of people with Alzheimer’s disease (PwAD), relatives, and dementia trainers regarding the usability of a tablet‐based dementia training. Method This qualitative study is part of an ongoing randomized controlled trial (project multimodAAL) which investigates the effects of an individually performed tablet‐based dementia training program (i.e., physical and cognitive exercises) in PwAD living at home. Individual interviews were conducted with people with mild AD (n = 5), relatives (n = 5) and dementia trainers (n = 5) who had been performing the training for at least 6 months. A qualitative content analysis was conducted. Result Participants were predominantly women (73.3%), with an average age of 73.4±11.4 years for PwAD, 66.2±10.7 years for relatives, and 43.1±10.4 years for trainers. Participants confirmed a good feasibility of the video‐provided physical exercises (e.g., coordination, strength), but some PwAD reported feeling unchallenged. Relatives and trainers wished for exercises to be more motivating (e.g., direct motivational address by the gymnast in the video, colorful sportswear). Regarding cognitive exercises, participants appreciated the varied and alternating types of exercises (e.g., puzzle, quiz) within the training sessions. Trainers and relatives recognized that PwAD particularly enjoyed exercises related to topics of their past/biography (e.g., hobbies, previous occupation) and to religious/seasonal traditions (e.g., Easter). Relatives and trainers highlighted that most PwAD needed support during the physical and cognitive exercises in terms of (technical) guidance, motivation/feedback/praise, as well as hints/tips/thought‐provoking impulses to perform their training successfully and to avoid frustration and cancellation of the training. Some suggested to extend the program regarding written and verbal support (e.g., hint button, voice assistant). Furthermore, participants emphasized a good sensitivity of the tablet‐PCs’ touch screen. Conclusion Results show that the presented tablet‐based dementia training is received well by participants, but there is still potential for (technical) enhancements regarding support through the exercises and motivational strategies