Augmented Reality: Sustaining Autonomous Way-Finding in the Community for Older Persons with Cognitive Impairment

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Assistive Technology

Background:

• Cognitive impairment in older adults significantly impacts independence and daily activities due to way-finding difficulties.
• Neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions can lead to impaired autonomous navigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of augmented reality (AR) for assisting autonomous way-finding in a community setting for older adults.
• To explore the potential of AR as an assistive technology to support the autonomy of older persons.

Main Methods:

• A head-up display (HUD) provided spatial maps and directional cues to guide participants from a hospital campus to a community bakery.
• Participants with mild cognitive impairment (ages 63-89) navigated a real-world route using the AR system.
• Navigation success was measured by the time to reach the goal and the number of assists required.

Main Results:

• AR-guided navigation proved highly effective, with patients successfully navigating 113 out of 120 intersections.
• Most participants required intermittent verbal reassurance during navigation.
• Participants expressed a willingness to use and even pay for AR devices for future use.

Conclusions:

• Augmented reality guided navigation is a viable and promising solution for sustaining autonomous way-finding in older adults.
• This technology can help preserve the independence and daily functioning of older persons with cognitive impairment.
• The study provides a foundation for community-based trials of assistive technology for cognitive support in aging populations.