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An individual Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (iCST) Application for People With Dementia: Development and Usability Study of Thinkability
ABSTRACT
Background:
There is a lack of technological resources for the mental stimulation and communication of people with dementia. Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) for people with dementia has the potential to be adapted onto a touchscreen format. This can improve accessibility and provide mental stimulation using interactive features. There is a need for a rigorous and systematic approach towards development leading to improved suitability and implementation of the intervention, so that more people can benefit from its use.
Objective:
This study aimed to develop an iCST application (iCST app) for people with dementia and carers on touchscreen tablets.
Methods:
The Medical Research Council (MRC) Framework for evaluating complex interventions and the Centre for eHealth Research (CeHRes) roadmap served as frameworks for the stages of intervention and technology development. The development of the iCST app itself adopted an agile approach with elements from action research. Hence, it was developed in 3 successive phases and was evaluated by relevant stakeholders at each phase. During the development cycle 3 Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) consultation meetings, 4 focus groups, 10 individual interviews were organised, and a feasibility trial is underway.
Results:
Findings from each stage were used to inform the development. Phase 1 helped to identify the relevant evidence base and explored attitudes of people with dementia and carers towards a potential iCST app. In phase 2, an initial prototype was evaluated in a small PPI consultation meeting. In phase 3, feedback was gathered through a qualitative study on the quality and perceived effectiveness of the iCST app. It was well received by people with dementia and carers. A need for more updated and personalized content was highlighted.
Conclusions:
This study proved that an agile approach towards technology development where all relevant stakeholders are involved is effective in creating suitable technology. Adding to our previous knowledge of non computerized CST, the release of the iCST app will make this psychosocial intervention accessible to more users around the world. Clinical Trial: N/A
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Copyright
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