A scoping review of social media use as a form of engagement among people with dementia

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundThere are an estimated 50 million adults living with dementia worldwide, a number that is projected to triple by 2050 (Patterson, 2018). Because there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, maintaining and supporting quality life are among the most important care targets. Engagement in meaningful and purposeful activities is a cornerstone of quality of life, however opportunities for participation in meaningful activities can be limited for people with dementia (Wenborn et al., 2008). Although social media has the potential to be a source of engagement and connectivity for people with dementia, there is little known about the impacts of social media use on engagement‐related outcomes in people with dementia.MethodTwo databases (PubMed and PsychINFO) were searched from 2000 through November 12st, 2021 for English‐language articles with search terms relating to dementia and social media in the title. The search returned 23 articles after removal of duplicates with 7 selected for inclusion into the review.ResultAlthough there has been an increase in the scholarly exploration of using social media as a tool or raising awareness about dementia and providing a space for connection for carers, there is little research examining social media use in people with dementia. The research that does exist has primarily explored Twitter use and people with early‐onset dementia. Themes that emerged from the articles reviewed included 1) social media use as a tool to counter loss of identity, 2) social media as a forum for support following a diagnosis, 3) a need for greater accessibility, 4) the presence and lack of consideration regarding safety and privacy risks, and 5) dementia activism as a source of engagement and purpose.ConclusionThe potential for social media to be a tool for social engagement for people living with dementia is relatively unexplored as are the considerations for safety and privacy. There is a need to more broadly understand the patterns and context of social media use among people with dementia. There are also opportunities for interventions using social media as a pathway to intergenerational and social connection, meaningful engagement, and cognitive stimulation.