Concept and prototypic implementation of a tangible user interface for psychosocial interventions in the context of dementia

Abstract: Demographic developments are not only increasing the proportion of older people in society, but also the number of people with physical and/or mental impairments becoming dependent on support, for example in nursing homes. Dementia is one of the most common and consequential psychiatric diseases among elderly. The progressive decline in cognitive and motor skills significantly impairs the quality of life of dementia patients. This also poses a great challenge for caregivers, especially in terms of communication and social interaction. Within the framework of psychosocial interventions, they try to maintain the cognitive performance and improve the emotional well-being of those affected. Music and reminiscence therapy have proven to be effective approaches in this context. While digital media are hardly used in practice so far, research already shows approaches how corresponding therapies can be supported by their use. This paper shows how tangible user interfaces (TUI) can be designed and used not only to support care work, but also to promote active participation and self-determined use by dementia patients. A first prototype is presented and shows the potentials of use and for future research.

Keywords: Dementia, Care Work, Psychosocial Interventions, Reminiscence Therapy, Music Therapy, Tangible User Interfaces

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005095

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