Emerging triage support environment for dementia care with camera system

Abstract

This study proposes a new concept called a Triage Support Environment based on the authors' research at three care homes. We believe that this study will help develop information and communication technology (ICT) systems for caring for people with dementia (PWD). We installed a video monitoring system for caregivers in three homes and observed the positive and negative effects of applying the system to caregiving. In terms of positive effects, the video monitoring system enabled caregivers to optimize their work and helped them concentrate on their tasks at hand, reducing both mental and physical stresses. On the other hand, some caregivers expressed concerns over being watched by other caregivers through the monitor, especially when their activities were recorded. We discuss these issues and explain how the concept of a Triage Support Environment may lead to a solution for these problems. © 2011 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.