TESTING LOCALLY DEVELOPED LANGUAGE APPS TO REDUCE CAREGIVER STRESS AND AGING IN PLACE AS IT RELATES TO DEMENTIA IN INDIGENOUS POPULATIONS

Abstract

In collaboration with our Community Research Advisory Committee (CRAC) our project introduces and tests locally developed language apps for their applicability, user friendliness, and impacts to individuals affected by dementia and their caregivers. It documents development of cultural competencies over an 18 month period. In collaboration with our Community Research Advisory Committee (CRAC) the project utilizes Indigenous Research Methodologies (IRM) to develop an innovative practice to reduce caregiver stress and allow people with dementia in Indigenous communities to “age in place”. This solution can support aging in place by utilizing the First Nations’ communities’ specific protective factors for prevention. We will examine the suitability, effectiveness and use of five locally developed language apps in the File Hills Qu'Appelle Tribal Council (all inclusive: Cree, Saulteaux, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakota). Ten electronic devices (iPads) pre-loaded with the individual's relevant language app will be used as the test device, and provided to ten caregivers of individuals with dementia. We will use observation to measure this as well as documenting regular feedback from the participants. This project allows us to build a framework to integrate First Nation roles, traditions, perspectives and ways of knowing and knowledge into the delivery of dementia care through language. Development of these cultural competencies within the system will support families and individuals affected by dementia, allowing them to improve their quality of life, normalize use of technology and finally to make recommendations for change. This project is unique because it tests a product and a service that is culturally relevant.