Experiences of individuals living with dementia, caregivers, and service providers regarding independence-enhancing technologies: focus group insights

Sharpe, B. T., King, R., Banerjee, M., Keates, S., Tyndall, I., Kooner-Evans, P., Sivyer, L., Cotten, E., Obine, E., Tabet, N., Ronen, I., Davies, N., Lewis, I., Tabbner, S., Wilkins, T. and Pereira, A. (2025) Experiences of individuals living with dementia, caregivers, and service providers regarding independence-enhancing technologies: focus group insights. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology. pp. 1-41. ISSN 1748-3107 (In Press)

[thumbnail of Sharpe et al Dementia Technologies.pdf] Text
Sharpe et al Dementia Technologies.pdf - Accepted Version
Restricted to Repository staff only
Available under License Creative Commons Attribution 4.0.

Download (348kB)

Abstract

This study explored the views and opinions of individuals living with dementia, caregivers, and healthcare professionals on assistive technologies that facilitate independent living. Using a qualitative approach, the researchers conducted focus groups with 35 participants in England. Findings revealed both the benefits and limitations of technologies like medication management devices, activities of daily living aids, GPS tracking, and smart home systems. While participants recognized the potential to enhance independence and safety, they highlighted usability, reliability, and technological failure as significant challenges. The complexity of digital interfaces and the cognitive demands of online interactions emerged as key barriers. Participants expressed a strong desire for more adaptive, user-friendly, and responsive technologies. The study underscores the importance of user-centered design and collaboration between developers, caregivers, and people living with dementia. By addressing the identified issues, future assistive technologies can improve quality of life for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. These insights can guide the development of more effective, accessible, and ethical assistive technologies in dementia care.

Publication Type: Articles
Uncontrolled Keywords: dementia, assistive technologies, independent living, user-centred design, digital accessibility
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare > HV40 Social service. Social work. Charilty organisation and pracitce > HV697 Protection, assistance and relief
T Technology > T Technology (General)
Divisions: Academic Areas > Business School
Academic Areas > Department of Engineering, Computing and Design
Academic Areas > Institute of Education, Social and Life Sciences > Psychology
Research Entities > Centre for Future Technologies
Research Entities > Centre for Sustainable Business
Research Entities > POWER Centre
Related URLs:
Depositing User: Ben Sharpe
Date Deposited: 27 May 2025 14:50
Last Modified: 27 May 2025 14:50
URI: https://eprints.chi.ac.uk/id/eprint/8096

Actions (login required)

View Item
View Item
▲ Top

Our address

I’m looking for