The Potential of Information Technology to Navigate Caregiving Systems: Perspectives from Dementia Caregivers

Technologies designed to support caregivers of adults with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/RD) have been developing at an increasingly rapid pace. However, little remains known about caregivers’ perspectives on how technologies can and should help them navigate larger service systems they interact with to engage in caregiving. This study involved in-depth interviews and a beta test of an AD/RD caregiver app to learn more about how they currently use technologies and how potential technological features and functions can best meet their needs. Thematic findings suggest a conceptual model for designing AD/RD caregiver technologies. The findings suggest that eHealth and individual technologies may not fully meet the needs of caregivers as they navigate the larger systems within which they provide care. Findings highlight the need to develop technologies for caregivers that are effective, easy to use, and more widely disseminated – especially for caregivers from disadvantaged backgrounds.