Tablet training at home for people with dementia and their caregivers during pandemic. (20th December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blekou, Patra; Sakka, Paraskevi; Zoi, Panagiota; Kalligeros, Nikolaos
• Is Part Of: Alzheimer's & dementia. Volume 18(2022)Supplement 9
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-12-20
• Subjects: Alzheimer's disease -- Periodicals; Alzheimer Disease -- Periodicals; Dementia -- Periodicals; Démence; Maladie d'Alzheimer; Périodique électronique (Descripteur de forme); Ressource Internet (Descripteur de forme); 616.83
• DOI: 10.1002/alz.065713
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1552-5260

Abstract

Abstract: Technology has provided some wonderful tools both for people with dementia and their caregivers by creating applications that empower seniors to live more actively and independently and remotely connect with family and friends. Since covid‐19 pandemic started, Alzheimer Athens has been offering to its members a wide range of digital services, providing online support, cognitive training, physical exercise programs, as well as opportunities to relax, socialize and have fun. However, in Greece, low level of digital literacy of elderly people with dementia and their caregivers have been key obstacles to the use of appropriate technological tools (PCs, tablets, smartphones etc.). To address this issue and explore the impact of tablet training on cognitive status, social engagement and quality of life, Alzheimer Athens has developed a 12‐month program of tablet training at home. The program started in August 2021 and will be completed in July 2022. In total, 120 people with dementia and their caregivers receive a free tablet and attend a series of 16 weekly workshops teaching basic skills allowing participants to feel confident using a tablet. Internet access is also provided free of charge for 12 months. Social isolation, loneliness, social support, and quality of life of participants were assessed before and after the intervention. Data on tablet use and attitudes toward technology tools were also collected. The overall experience of the 60 people with mild cognitive impairment and early dementia who participated in the first phase of tablet training intervention was extremely positive. The vast majority of them started using Alzheimer Athens digital services shortly after the training had been completed! Detailed results of the questionnaires used to assess all aspects of the intervention, will be reported at the end of it. We aspire our preliminary and very encouraging findings will help us develop more successful interventions utilizing new technologies and create better health outcomes for people with dementia in the future as we move into a post‐COVID‐19 world.