Acceptance of sensor networks by dementia patients

Abstract:
We present results and experiences of a field trail of a telemonitoring system in dementia care. The system has been installed at the homes of five patients with mild dementia disease. Measuring parameters like physical activities, body weight, usage of household appliances, data was collected over a period of five up to nine weeks. Physicians involved in the project were able to access data using a web service. To get information about acceptance and usability, relatives and care professionals were asked to answer questionnaires. Results of the study show a relatively high acceptance of sensor networks at home by participants as well as caretakers. Also a body-worn pedometer and a body-scale were used continuously by the patients and have been shown to be useable in everyday life. Due to the proven acceptance it could be shown, that the use of telemonitoring systems is able to assist care for patients suffering from MCI or dementia.