Development and evaluation of FindMyApps

Abstract

This chapter describes the participatory development and evaluation of the person-centred tablet-based FindMyApps program. This program consists of a tablet training and tool to help people with mild dementia, and informal carers find apps for self-management and meaningful activities matching their interests, needs and abilities. People with dementia and carers were involved in all stages of the study. Following the Medical Research Council framework for development and evaluation of complex interventions, first a user needs inventory on relevant self-management activities and meaningful activities and a user requirements inventory were conducted. Next, a prototype intervention was developed, its feasibility tested and outcomes, in comparison with usual tablet use, explored in two pilot randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Finally, a definitive RCT was set-up. Qualitative results indicated that FindMyApps has potential to improve self-management abilities and engagement in meaningful activities of people with dementia. The FindMyApps-tool was perceived as useful and easy-to-use. Persons with dementia found apps through the tool and used these regularly. No statistical significant effects were found after three months, but small positive effect sizes showed tendencies in favour of the FindMyApps-group for self-management, social participation and carers’ positive care experiences. The definitive trial will provide answers about the effectiveness of FindMyApps.