Knowledge of digital technology and use of e-Health solutions in patients with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers: a systematic review (Preprint)

Abstract

Digital technology use for dementia prevention and care is an area of huge development with different experiences among countries. Nevertheless, final users’ propensity and capability to e-health solutions are rarely evaluated. Novel digital solutions often lack a patient-oriented perspective, and relevant barriers prevent their use in clinics.

This systematic review aims to investigate current literature on familiarity with digital technology and on the use of digital tools in Alzheimer’s disease patients and caregivers.

Following the PRISMA guidelines, a literature search was conducted. Only papers reporting quantitative and/or qualitative assessments were considered.

From 597 initial records, only 18 papers were considered eligible. In detail, 8 studies investigated patients’ knowledge, familiarity or competence with digital technology, while 10 studies explored the use, acceptability or usability of specific e-health solutions, showing wide acceptability by patients and caregivers. However, age, education and socio-economic status strongly impacted in the relationship. Some key barriers emerged, such as the need for individualized training programs and a timely introduction of the solution along the disease course.

Our data proves a huge mismatch between the flourishing of digital literature in Alzheimer’s disease and the poor attention to real-life implementation of digital solutions. Early identifying the set of barriers and facilitators that may influence acceptability and adherence to e-health technology in specific digital scenarios is to recommend for the benefit of the patients-caregiver dyad and a more effective use and implementation of new technologies in clinics.