Piloting of a compensatory memory digital health intervention in a group of individuals with subject cognitive complaints

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundTraditional paper‐based calendars and to‐do lists have limitations related to difficulty retrieving information and no automated way to prompt completion of activities. Such limitations may be overcome using a digital format through organized files, search functions, and alarms. This pilot project trained older adults at risk for cognitive decline to use the Digital Memory Notebook (DMN), a tablet‐based application, to support everyday memory. The primary goal was to obtain preliminary information regarding a 6‐week, group‐based DMN training intervention in terms of acceptability and satisfaction.MethodTen participants with subject cognitive complaints (SCC), a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease, enrolled in the study. Participants met 2‐hours per week for 6‐weeks. A manualized curriculum covered specific DMN functions and weekly homework/goal‐setting targets. Following the intervention, participants continued to use the DMN for 4‐weeks and then provided feedback, which was audio recorded and transcribed.ResultsThree participants left the study after the initial consenting session and one participant discontinued after the second session, all specifying that they were already efficiently using similar electronic systems. The remaining six participants had an average attendance rate of 89%, which was above our initial target rate of 80%. Overall, participants reported that they enjoyed the group intervention and believe the DMN is a useful everyday memory aid. Participants endorsed seeing benefit of having multiple functions (e.g., calendar, to‐do list, notes, journal) in a single, senior‐friendly application. Participants particularly enjoyed the journal and note taking functions, emphasizing the organization and search functions to be the most beneficial. Three participants chose to download the DMN onto their personal tablet device for continued use and one participant downloaded a notes/journal specific application to their phone.ConclusionsInitial feedback for the DMN group intervention is promising and suggests that individuals find value in using the DMN as a compensatory tool. That said, participants may lack initial buy‐in if they are already using a similar electronic system. Information gleaned from this pilot study will help improve the group intervention and digital health tool.