Information and communication technology for physical activity in persons living with dementia: A systematic review with implications for evidence-based practice

Abstract

Background: Persons living with dementia often encounter many difficulties in their community due to functional limitations. Information and Communication Technology (ICT) could be useful to monitor changes in their physical function. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews about using ICT for physical activity.

Aim: This review aimed to synthesize the literature regarding the use of ICT to monitor the physical activity of persons living with dementia.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted in five electronic databases using search terms derived from the Patient, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) framework. We included articles published in English from 2011 to 2021. Quality of the included studies was evaluated by two independent authors using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).

Results: Thirty-three quantitative studies were included for review. Included studies showed fairly good quality in the MMAT evaluation. Wearable devices were mainly employed (88%). The ICTs were used to objectively measure physical activity, activity status, gait, and circadian rhythm. ICTs have been utilized for four purposes: (1) comparing physical activity within the dementia subgroups or with the normal group, (2) exploring the relationship with other variables, 3) examining the experimental study's outcomes, and (4) checking the sensors' feasibility. The results demonstrated that ICT devices were feasible to use in persons living with dementia in the community, helpful for monitoring the physical activity of persons living with dementia, and useful for improving physical activity when properly incorporated in care planning.

Linking evidence to action: ICTs can help gather objective data regarding the type, intensity, and level of physical activity in persons living with dementia without time constraints. Also, ICTs use in persons living with dementia in the community was acceptable. We suggest future studies to activate and use ICTs in dementia research.