Using GPS Safer walking technology to promote identity and well-being through engagement in meaningful outdoor occupations

Abstract

More now, than ever before, we are aware that spending time in outdoor natural environments and maintaining connections to nature are important to our health and well-being. Yet, access to the outdoors is sometimes limited for people living with dementia because of concerns about the risks of them becoming lost, particularly in natural outdoor environments such as woodland and green open spaces. This can prevent people with dementia engaging in meaningful activities outdoors and lead to a reduced quality of life. In the UK, safer walking technology is increasingly being used by people with dementia to access the outdoor environment, (Wood, Woolham and Ward 2015). This new research from Coventry University explores the use of this technology, through the lived experience of both people living with dementia and family carers