“It leads to conversation”: Staff descriptions on the use of tablet computers in facilitating meaningful interactions in residential dementia care homes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58986/al.2025.34309Nyckelord:
social interaction, dementia, residential care, tablet computer, person-centered careAbstract
This study explores the experiences of care staff using tablet computers as a social activity with residents living with dementia. While digital tools are becoming increasingly more common in residential care, research about their introduction is scarce. Through semistructured interviews with seven professional carers, the research identifies both barriers and enabling factors in the introduction of these digital tools. Key findings highlight the importance of person-centered care, tailored to suit individual needs and preferences, to maximize the benefits of tablet use. Furthermore, the findings indicate that staff perceptions about dementia and older age affect the introduction of tablet computers. The results underscore the necessity for staff training and dedicated time to support residents effectively. Ultimately, the study shows how the staff experienced increased opportunities to engage in meaningful interaction with the residents after the introduction of the tablet computer, where the technology fostered rather than replaced interpersonal communication.
Denna studie undersöker erfarenheterna som personal inom särskilt boende har av att använda surfplattor i interaktioner med boende som lever med demens. Digitala verktyg blir alltmer förekommande inom demensomsorgen men kunskap om dess implementerings saknas. Genom semistrukturerade intervjuer med sju professionella vårdare identifierar studien både hinder och möjliggörande faktorer vid implementeringen av surfplattor. Resultatet belyser vikten av personcentrerad kommunikation, anpassad efter individuella behov och preferenser, för att maximera fördelarna med surfplattor. Vidare indikerar resultaten att personalens uppfattningar om demens och åldrande påverkar implementeringen av surfplattor inom särskilt boende. Resultaten understryker behovet av personalutbildning och avsatt tid för att effektivt kunna stödja de boende. Användningen av surfplattor har potential att bidra till djupare och mer meningsfulla interaktioner, vilket kan förbättra livskvaliteten för personer med demens inom särskilt boende.
Nedladdningar
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