In this presentation, we describe two technologies developed for the efficient management of behaviour in dementia: Ambient Activity Technologies (AAT) and the Centivizer. The AAT uses a person-centred approach and a combination of electronic devices (e.g., tablets) and physical controllers (e.g., wheels and buttons) to create engaging activities to be played at any time by residents with minimal involvement of long-term care (LTC) staff. The Centivizer is a reward-based computer-controlled hardware device that uses sensors and software to control the dispensing of nickels based on performance of desired behaviours. The software allows caregivers to track behaviour over time and to set individual goals based on targeted behaviours.
User-centered design principles implemented in our research and development will be discussed. We will also describe our approached to stakeholder engagement and the evaluation framework used to explore the impact of these technologies on residents, as well as LTC visitors and staff.
 

Wilkinson, Andrea¹; Kanik, Marc²; O'Neill, Judy³; Chignell, Mark^1  
1Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario; ²Ambient Activity Technologies, Midland, Ontario; ³Grandview Lodge, Dunnville, Ontario