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Persons with Dementia and Their Caregivers Using GPS
Tone Øderud1, Bjørg Landmark2, Sissel Eriksen2
1SINTEF Technology and Society, Oslo, Norway.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|August 22, 2015
Summary
Global Positioning Systems (GPS) enhance safety and independence for individuals with dementia, allowing them to maintain autonomy during outdoor activities. Successful implementation requires trained professionals and established protocols for technology use.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Assistive Technology
- Public Health
Background:
- Dementia progression often leads to reduced autonomy and safety concerns during outdoor activities.
- Global Positioning Systems (GPS) offer potential solutions for monitoring and supporting individuals with dementia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) in supporting autonomy and independence for persons with dementia.
- To gather knowledge for implementing GPS technology within public health care services.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 208 persons with dementia and their caregivers participated in the study.
- Commercially available GPS devices were used by participants during daily outdoor activities between 2012 and 2014.
- Family caregivers were trained in using GPS technology for locating participants.
Main Results:
- GPS usage significantly increased safety for persons with dementia, family caregivers, and professional caregivers.
- GPS technology enabled individuals with dementia to maintain autonomy, freedom, and continue outdoor activities despite disease progression.
Conclusions:
- Successful implementation of GPS requires trained health professionals, consideration of ethical dilemmas, and adequate caregiver knowledge.
- Establishing clear procedures for GPS administration and locating individuals is crucial for effective integration into public health care.
- Early intervention and collaboration among all involved parties are key to successful GPS implementation.
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