Formal and informal carers' views on ICT in dementia care: Insights from two qualitative studies

Formal and informal caregivers' views on the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions in dementia care were assessed using semi-structured qualitative interviews. Both caregiver groups were very little aware of available ICT solutions and the technological progress in this area. The analysis revealed three overarching themes: (i) barriers of ICT use in dementia care, (ii) expected benefits, and (iii) desired ICT functions or characteristics. Informal and formal carers shared basically identical views regarding potential negative effects of using ICT in dementia care, but expressed very different ICT-related attitudes and expectations. Findings are discussed with respect to successful ICT development and marketing, and improved end user acceptance.