"Let's Connect": Implementing a tablet‐based intervention for people with dementia and caregivers

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundLet’s Connect training to use tablets and accessible apps with people living with dementia was implemented with staff, volunteers and family caregivers to evaluate the program impact.MethodEighty‐six staff and volunteers (18‐88 years of age) in 14 adult day programs and long‐term care homes in Ontario, Canada received training to deliver Let’s Connect groups as part of their daily or weekly programming. They were supported to deliver Let’s Connect group program for an initial eight sessions program with 118 people with dementia (56‐98 years of age). Staff and volunteers completed the Dementia Attitudes Scale (DAS) before and after the eight sessions and an exit interview, which was also completed by family caregivers who received training to support Let's Connect at home. People with dementia completed the QoL‐AD and SPS‐10 measure of social connectedness plus exit interviews.ResultThere was an improvement in staff and volunteer’s DAS score, while the people with dementia attending the adult day programs maintained their relatively high levels of social connectedness. Thematic analysis identified social interaction as a key benefit for staff, volunteers, caregivers and people with dementia. Further benefits and potential barriers were also identified.ConclusionLet’s Connect was well‐received, directly improved attitudes towards dementia and enhanced social activity. All of the sites that received training continued with the Let’s Connect group program after the research project ended. We will share our training strategy that can be applied to other tablet‐based activities.