Description
BackgroundA mixed methods process evaluation was conducted alongside a randomized controlled trial (RCT) into the effectiveness of the tablet-based FindMyApps intervention, which aims to improve social health in people with dementia. This study will support interpretation of the RCT results.
Methods
The process evaluation followed UK Medical Research Council guidance. Semi-structured interviews (SSIs) were conducted with a purposively selected sample of participant dyads (people with dementia and informal caregivers), and members of the project team, regarding three main themes: implementation, mechanisms of impact, and contextual factors. A particular focus of enquiry was implementation of training in tablet use by videocall. Thematic analysis was conducted, with a pre-determined coding scheme including subthemes of the three main themes. Quantitative data regarding nature and frequency of users’ interactions with the FindMyApps app were collected with analytics software (Matomo).
Results
Analysis of SSIs (n=30 dyads; 15 experimental, 15 control) revealed no significant technical barriers to implementation. Around half of participants were satisfied with training by videocall, comparing it favourably to telephone support, whilst half of participants found videocalls acceptable but would have preferred face-to-face sessions. Methods by which caregivers supported people with dementia frequently deviated from those advised during training, yet were mostly positively experienced by the people with dementia. Participating in the experimental group, higher motivation and previous experience with technology were associated with more positive experiences. Analysis of quantitative data is pending.
Conclusions
The FindMyApps intervention was mostly implemented effectively during the RCT. Videocalls were a feasible method for (supporting) implementation.
| Period | 29 Nov 2021 |
|---|---|
| Event title | Interdem Annual Meeting |
| Event type | Conference |
| Degree of Recognition | International |