Home // HUSO 2018, The Fourth International Conference on Human and Social Analytics // View article
Authors:
Gemma Goodall
Ileana Ciobanu
Ronny Broekx
Jon Sørgaard
Iulian Anghelache
Catalina Anghelache-Tutulan
Mara Diaconu
Sigrid Mæland
Therese Borve
Audun Digranes Dagestad
Piet Bormans
Marleen Custers
Katrin Losleben
Rita Valadas
Alda Matias
Andreea Marin
Kristin Taraldsen
Walter Maetzler
Mihai Berteanu
Artur Serrano
Keywords: dementia; virtual environments; immersive technology; emotions; interpersonal relationships
Abstract:
This paper presents early stage research on the development of an immersive, multisensory room for people living with dementia. Dementia is considered to be a public health priority on a global level. Our research addresses the challenge of meeting individual needs in dementia care, particularly in relation to social and emotional wellbeing. We draw upon findings from 52 interviews with users, including people with mild cognitive impairment, professional caregivers, and informal caregivers. These interviews were conducted to explore initial responses towards a multisensory room called SENSE-GARDEN. Findings indicate that users view the immersive environment as a space in which a person with dementia’s sense of self can be supported and expressed with others. SENSE-GARDEN was considered to be a tool for creating emotional environments in which users can explore their life stories together with loved ones. Technology’s role in fostering emotional spaces is discussed in terms of a transactional relationship between the person with dementia, the caregiver, and the immersive environment. This research provides rationale for the study of emotional engagement and interaction not only in the SENSE-GARDEN project, but also in the wider context of welfare technology as a whole.
Pages: 37 to 42
Copyright: Copyright (c) IARIA, 2018
Publication date: June 24, 2018
Published in: conference
ISSN: 2519-8351
ISBN: 978-1-61208-648-4
Location: Venice, Italy
Dates: from June 24, 2018 to June 28, 2018