Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a dementia syndrome causing progressive language decline, limiting access to care due to intervention and clinician shortages.
• Technology-supported approaches show promise for improving care access, but factors influencing web application use in PPA patients remain unexplored.
• This study addresses the need to evaluate the feasibility and usage of an app-based intervention for PPA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usage patterns of a web application designed for home practice in individuals with PPA.
• To assess the feasibility of using a technology-supported intervention for PPA patients.
• To explore user experiences and identify factors influencing the adoption of web applications for communication and language therapy.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative analysis of app engagement data (logins, completed exercises) from 95 participants in a 12-month randomized controlled trial (Communication Bridge-2).
• Qualitative assessment of feasibility through semi-structured post-study interviews with 79 participants.
• Multi-methods approach combining descriptive statistics and thematic coding of qualitative data.

Main Results:

• High average weekly app logins (5.88) and completion of home practice exercises (3.99 days/week) were observed.
• Minimal technical challenges were reported (85%), with most users (90%) finding the computer-based format helpful and user-friendly after training.
• Participants reported increased confidence and motivation for home communication practice, highlighting the app's positive impact.

Conclusions:

• Web applications demonstrate high usage and feasibility for supporting communication and language interventions in PPA.
• Findings challenge assumptions about technology use in older adults with cognitive-communication impairments.
• Web applications are viable tools for delivering evidence-based speech-language home practice and educational resources to PPA individuals and their partners.