Dementia, enjoyable activities & touch-screen computers 122714
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Exploring the possibilities of touch screen computer technology in the facilitation of enjoyable activity with people living with dementia.
IRAS ID
122714
Contact name
Sarah Kate Smith
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Sheffield
Research summary
This qualitative study will explore the potential of touch screen computers in promoting enjoyable activity with people living with dementia. The goal is to develop a psychosocial intervention to address some of the unmet needs identified by people in the early stages of the condition living in their own homes.
Between 5 and 10 people with dementia will be recruited through memory clinics in Sheffield. Participants will be offered the choice to nominate a supporter (spouse, family member friend) to participate alongside them (the dyad) or they may participate independently.
Each participant or dyad will be involved in one in-depth interview which will explore past, present and future hobbies and interests as well as any existing experience of using computers. This interview will inform the personalisation of the devices to meet the wishes, needs and requirements of the individual. Four subsequent sessions of participant observation will enable the researcher and participants to interact with the personalised touch screen computers together.
All sessions will be video recorded to aid clarity and understanding during analysis, presentation and dissemination of results.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - South Yorkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/YH/0370
Date of REC Opinion
4 Dec 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion