Dementia Care Research and Psychosocial Factors

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• The LABPSI (cognitive stimulation web lab) was developed using a User Experience framework for older adults, including those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
• This project investigated the acceptance of LABPSI for individual use by MCI subjects in both in-person and at-home settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the acceptance and usability of the LABPSI web lab for cognitive stimulation among individuals with MCI.
• To compare user experience and acceptance of LABPSI in supervised in-person settings versus unsupervised home-based settings.

Main Methods:

• Eight participants with MCI engaged in 8 sessions (45 minutes, twice weekly) of LABPSI exercises.
• Assessments included the Fototest and Digital Competencies Questionnaire at baseline and post-intervention, alongside a Likert scale and open-ended acceptance questionnaire.
• Participants performed exercises individually, with support available if needed, in either a workshop or home environment.

Main Results:

• High mean scores were reported for ease of use (4.30), interface and satisfaction (4.49), perceived usefulness (4.53), and content (4.84) on a 1-5 scale.
• Qualitative feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with participants highlighting LABPSI's utility, ease of use, and content diversity, and expressing willingness to recommend it.
• No significant differences in acceptance scores were found between in-person and at-home settings, though home users required more observed support to maintain engagement.

Conclusions:

• The LABPSI is a well-accepted technological tool for cognitive stimulation activities among individuals with MCI, suitable for both in-person and at-home use.
• High acceptability scores and positive qualitative feedback indicate user satisfaction with LABPSI's design and functionality.
• Additional support may be beneficial for MCI participants engaging with LABPSI independently at home to ensure sustained participation.