Developing feedback methods for caregivers of persons with cognitive impairment using a home‐based sensing and computing system

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundConventional methods assessing activities related to caregiving rely on self‐report with caregivers providing estimations of time and resources directed to these activities, which vary over time and can be difficult to reliably estimate retrospectively. Home‐based assessment platforms using sensors to collect objective information on daily activities represent a novel method to evaluate caregivers.MethodThis pilot study is an observational trial using the Collaborative Aging Research Using Technology (CART) sensor platform to assess cognitive and functional outcome measures. The study is enrolling individuals with cognitive impairment living with a caregiver. All participants’ complete questionnaires on functional status and behavioral symptoms, and undergo cognitive testing at baseline. These conventional measures are compared to the sensor‐based outcome measures. Caregivers complete an additional survey on burden level, the Zarit Burden Inventory (ZBI‐12). Additionally, focus group sessions will be held including caregivers enrolled in the pilot study and caregivers of individuals with cognitive impairment in the community.ResultData is currently being collected on daily functional activities in caregivers. Enrollment is ongoing for participant homes installing the sensor system. Three caregivers are enrolled, with an average age of 61.7 years (± 5.0), and 14 (± 3.4) years of education. Baseline mean ZBI‐12 scores were 15 (±4.6). Data has been collected for 9672 hours in total for the 3 participants. Caregivers slept on average 8.8 (±2.3) hrs/night and took 3868 (± 592) steps per day. Sensor data will be compared to ZBI‐12 scores to identify those activities correlated with higher levels of burden. Information from the focus group sessions will be used to guide development of a feedback system to inform caregivers of their activities related to time and effort spent in caregiving.ConclusionA home‐based sensing and computing system could provide objective information on activity and effort related to caregiving activities. The design of the feedback system is being developed using input from end‐users. The information provided by this system could help to inform caregivers of changes in their level of caregiving activities associated with higher levels of stress and more promptly identify whether they should seek increased external or community support.