Assistive technology to support home safety in dementia: A scoping Review

Background: As older adults choose to age at home, an increasing number of those with dementia are living alone and depends on caregivers. Safety may become an issue, as people with dementia are at risk of incidents (e.g.,... [ view full abstract ]

Background:
As older adults choose to age at home, an increasing number of those with dementia are living alone and depends on caregivers. Safety may become an issue, as people with dementia are at risk of incidents (e.g., self-neglect, falls, wandering). Assistive technology may reduce risks, however, little is known about to what extent it is used and applicable with this population. This scoping review aims to synthesize the actual knowledge on assistive technology and its use and applicability to improve home safety in dementia.
Method:
A scoping review was performed and the scientific and grey literature was searched. Natural and controlled keywords were used in databases (Ageline, CINAHL, Medline). Sources were included if they described assistive technology used to improve home safety in dementia.
Results:
Thirty-three sources were retrieved. Preliminary results (n = 24) revealed that diverse assistive technologies, such as tracking devices, fall detectors, smart homes and reminder alarms, may be used to improve home safety. Studies showed positive results, as assistive technologies may detect abnormal behaviours (e.g., falls, wandering, forgetting medication) and alert the adult with dementia or the caregiver about risk. However, sample of studies reviewed were small and technologies were not always available to clinicians. Ethical issues were also reported related to the use of video and tracking devices.
Application to Practice:
Assistive technologies yield promising results and may be recommended by occupational therapists. However, further research with larger sample are needed to demonstrate their applicability in dementia and facilitate access to this technologies.