Using an Empathetic Approach to Explore Technology Readiness and Needs for Digital Services to Assist People with Dementia

Mille Aagaard Engblad (), Emilie Pind Herstal, Emilie Kauffeldt Wegener and Lars Kayser
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Mille Aagaard Engblad: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1353 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Emilie Pind Herstal: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1353 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Emilie Kauffeldt Wegener: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1353 Copenhagen K, Denmark
Lars Kayser: Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Øster Farimagsgade 5, 1353 Copenhagen K, Denmark

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 8, 1-17

Abstract: This qualitative study investigates technology readiness, i.e., self-management, social support, and digital health literacy, in people with dementia (PwD). PwD are difficult to recruit; therefore, we used an empathic approach to recruit and conduct interviews. The interviews with seven participants with dementia and two informal caregivers, guided by the READHY framework, reveal nuanced insights into their experiences. Participants demonstrate varying degrees of self-management, with informal caregivers playing pivotal roles in facilitating activities and supporting overall well-being. Cognitive challenges, such as concentration and communication difficulties, are prevalent, highlighting the importance of robust support systems. Internal and external support networks significantly influence social integration, yet societal misconceptions impede inclusion, exacerbating feelings of isolation for both participants and caregivers. Limited interaction with technology is observed, primarily reliant on caregivers for assistance. Technology may hold potential for enhancing independence and alleviating caregiver burden. As an empathetic approach eased recruitment and communication with PwD, we recommend using this approach for future studies to include participants who otherwise would not be recruited. Given that the number of participants in this study is limited to only seven PwD with moderate to severe cognitive impairment, further investigation using mixed methods, including the READHY framework, and a larger number of participants is needed to examine the generalizability of the findings.

Keywords: dementia; empathetic approach; health technology readiness; innovative approach; collaboration; inclusion (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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