Acceptability and Feasibility of a Multicomponent Telehealth Care Management Program in Older Adults With Advanced Dementia in a Residential Memory Care Unit

Abstract

The aim of the current study was to examine the acceptability and feasibility of a multicomponent care management program in older adults with advanced dementia in a long-term memory care unit. Eighteen older adults with moderate to severe dementia were asked to wear an activity monitor (Fitbit Charge 2 HR) and participate in a once monthly telehealth intervention via iPads over a 6-month period. Activity monitor data were used to assess compliance. Acceptability was assessed through qualitative interviews conducted with the caregiving staff on the memory unit. The care management program was acceptable to residents and their caregivers. Results indicated that the care management program is feasible in older adults with advanced dementia although activity monitor adherence was better during the day than at night. Telehealth session compliance was excellent throughout the study. A long-term multicomponent dementia care program is acceptable and feasible in individuals with advanced dementia. Future studies should aim to evaluate whether data received from activity monitors can be used in a dementia care intervention program.