Improving observation reporting in real-time
Host Institution: Toronto Rehabilitation Institute / University Health Network
Led by a geriatric psychiatrist/clinical researcher, a project team from the Toronto Rehabilitation Institute is using their Spark award of $48,650 to accelerate the development of a mobile app that can track and assess responsive behaviours in people with dementia.
Most people with dementia will develop behavioural symptoms that are distressing and difficult for caregivers to manage. Over time, these behaviours can progress, putting people with dementia at risk of violence and falls that may require the use of physical restraints and antipsychotic medication. In addition to safety issues, these behaviours have a negative impact on dignity, independence and quality of life, and they increase the cost of care.
As it can be challenging for caregivers to remember and report specific episodes and possible triggers from memory alone, the project team developed a working prototype of a mobile device app called Dementia Observation (DObs). The app allows caregivers to record responsive behaviours in real-time, using a proven framework for direct observation. With more accurate data collection and an easy to read report, clinicians will be able to prescribe effective strategies to manage and avoid these behaviours without the use of medications. The team will advance their prototype to produce a working app that is ready for clinical research and test it in a clinical setting.