INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY IN DEMENTIA CARE: ACCEPTANCE AMONG PROFESSIONAL CAREGIVERS

Abstract

AbstractWhen it comes to dealing with symptoms associated with dementia, a number of studies have established the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions. However, in view of limited financial and human resources, implementing effective interventions in daily practice can be a major challenge for care providers. Recently, there has been a growing interest in the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for supporting psychosocial interventions in nursing home settings. ICTs are cost-effective and widely available, and using them could potentially ease the burden of dementia care delivery. Therefore, in order to assess acceptance and attitudes of professional caregivers regarding ICTs in dementia care, a sample of N = 205 professional caregivers (M = 38,81 yrs; 70% female) from 10 residential care facilities located in Berlin completed a standardized questionnaire (TA-EG) on factors associated with technology use and acceptance. Additionally, 11 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Results showed that older and female caregivers, respectively, reported less Competence (z = -4.21, p < .01 and z = -4.44, p < .01, resp.) and Enthusiasm (z = -2.38, p < .05 and z = -4.01, p < .01, resp.) regarding the use of technology in their work environment. Furthermore, qualitative content analysis of the interview transcripts revealed both factors promoting the use of ICTs in residential dementia care, and potential barriers. Important recommendations for the development of ICT-based interventions in dementia care will be reported and general implications for their design and successful adoption will be discussed.