1542 IMPLEMENTATION OPPORTUNITIES FOR A GARMENT-INTEGRATED SENSOR SYSTEM FOR EARLY DETECTION OF STRESS IN PEOPLE LIVING WITH DEMENTIA

Age and Ageing, vol. 52

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Stress and communication difficulties, both prone in people with dementia, are risk factors for challenging behaviour. Challenging behaviour negatively impacts the quality of life of people with dementia and their caregivers. Technology can help caregivers detect stress in people with dementia. However, implementation of these technologies is not always successful. The aim of this study is to explore the implementation opportunities for a garment-integrated sensor system that enables caregivers to identify early signs of stress in people with dementia. Methods A qualitative design with online focus groups (n=9) and interviews (n=21) with persons living with dementia (n=4), family (n=10) and professional caregivers (n=9) was used to collect stakeholders’ perceptions towards the sensor system and requirements for its implementation into long-term care. Participants took part in three focus groups or interviews, of which the last round focused on implementation. Qualitative data were analysed using inductive conventional content analysis. Results Participants were positive about the idea of a garment-integrated sensor system and could see several groups in both intramural and extramural healthcare settings benefit from the system. Besides early stress detection, participants also saw an added value of the system for the identification of triggers for challenging behaviour or for diagnostic purposes. According to participants, implementing the system in long-term care requires clear guidelines and agreements for its use, a trial period and educating caregivers. The sensor system needs to meet several requirements (e.g. customizability, ease of use) to increase user acceptance and thereby implementation success. Conclusions Participants perceive the idea of a garment-integrated sensor system for people with dementia in long-term care as positive. To increase implementation success, it is important to create an easy-to-use, tailor-made system, educate stakeholders, and establish clear guidelines for its use. The next step is to validate and implement the system in long-term care.

Authors 6

1. E Adam Aachen

   Leiden University Medical Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Medical Center Department of Public Health and Primary Care; , The Netherlands

   University Network for Care sector Zuid-Holland; Leiden University Medical Center , Leiden, The Netherlands

   Department of Public Health and Primary Care

   University Network for Care sector Zuid-Holland

2. Franka J. M. Meiland Aachen

   Leiden University Medical Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Medical Center Department of Public Health and Primary Care; , The Netherlands

   Department of Public Health and Primary Care

3. Noud Frielink

   Tilburg University

   Affiliation as printed

   Tilburg University Tranzo; Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences; , The Netherlands

   Tilburg University, The Netherlands

   Tranzo

4. Erwin R. Meinders
   Affiliation as printed

   Mentech Innovation b.v. Eindhoven , The Netherlands

5. P.J.C.M. Embregts

   Tilburg University

   Affiliation as printed

   Tilburg University Tranzo; Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences; , The Netherlands

   Tilburg University, The Netherlands

   Tranzo

6. Hanneke J. A. Smaling Aachen

   Leiden University Medical Center

   Affiliation as printed

   Leiden University Medical Center Department of Public Health and Primary Care; , The Netherlands

   University Network for Care sector Zuid-Holland; Leiden University Medical Center , Leiden, The Netherlands

   Department of Public Health and Primary Care

   University Network for Care sector Zuid-Holland