Background:
Prospective memory difficulties are commonly reported in people with dementia. The evidence supporting the use of prospective memory devices among the dementia population remains limited. MindMate is a recently developed smart device application that aims to support individuals with a diagnosis of dementia, improving self-management skills and quality of life.
Aims:
This study investigated the effectiveness and usability of the reminder tool on the MindMate application as a memory aid.
Method:
Three participants with a diagnosis of mild Alzheimer’s disease were recruited to this multiple baseline single case experimental design study. Partners of the participants recorded their performance on everyday tasks on weekly monitoring forms during a baseline phase (for between five and seven weeks) and during the intervention phase (five weeks) whilst using MindMate.
Results:
Two participants successfully used the app throughout the intervention weeks and gave positive usability ratings. Tau-U analysis showed a significant increase in memory performance between baseline and intervention phase (Tau-U = 1, 0.94, p<0.01). A third participant withdrew from the intervention phase following difficulties turning off the reminders and frustrations with the reminder alert sound.
Conclusions:
The use of the MindMate app was feasible for people with dementia in the community. It was effective compared to practice as usual, with participants reporting intentions to use in the future. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed
