Unfolding memories: Crafting digital life storybooks for dementia care via telehealth.

Abstract

Background: Dementia, a rapidly growing cognitive disorder, has a profound impact on the lives of individuals and their caregivers across the globe. Digital life storybooks have emerged as a promising non-pharmacological intervention to improve the wellbeing of people living with dementia (PLWD).

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the feasibility of developing and applying a digital life storybook for PLWD using telehealth, while evaluating its impact on communication skills, quality of life (QoL) and satisfaction levels.

Material and methods: A mixed-method study design will be employed, involving pairs of PLWD and their primary caregivers (dyads) recruited from a teaching hospital and a non-profit organization in Malaysia. The intervention involves the creation and use of a digital life storybook facilitated remotely via telehealth channels. Data will be collected at 6 points in time: prior to the commencement of development, prior to the submission of an application, on a biweekly basis, and at the conclusion of the assessment period. Quantitative measures will include the Holden Communication Scale, Quality of Life-Alzheimer's Disease Scale (QoL-AD) and Quality of the Caregiving Relationship (QCPR) questionnaire. Qualitative data will be gathered through validated open-ended questions.

Results: Implications of the study include facilitating future research, contributing to person-centered care practices, and providing caregivers with tools to better understand and connect with PLWD. The findings will contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms through which digital life storybooks can benefit PLWD and their caregivers.

Conclusion: The successful implementation of this protocol could have significant implications for dementia care in both formal and informal settings, and could ultimately improve the lives of those affected by dementia.