Reminiscence activities are effective in supporting people living with dementia, but translation into digital tools is under-researched. This project sought to understand the effectiveness of a digital reminiscence tool in aiding person-centred dementia care in Community Home Australia (CHA) organisation in Canberra, Australia.

 

This study used qualitative research methodology in the form of semi-structured interviews and ethnographic observations. 17 participants were observed and or interviewed about the use of the StoryTiling application as a digital reminiscence tool in aiding person-centred care. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, coded by individual researchers and then discussed to reach consensus before thematic analysis.

 

Themes identified were: 1.Reminiscence for guests and members, and 2. for loved ones; 3. Enhanced relationships; 4. Person centered adaptation; 5. Other potential uses. Findings indicate that the StoryTiling app was user friendly and well liked and aided in enhancing person-centred care. The reminiscence activity enhanced relationships between participants, families and carers, facilitating a deeper knowing of the participant with dementia, and supported positive memories and emotions and sustained the identity of the person with dementia in their own mind, and their loved ones. The process was dependent on the ‘art of the question’ and the ‘art of the interview’ to effectively progress interviews, and continue to utilise them within the respite care environment. 

 

Enabling nudge activities that promote person centered engagement such as reminiscence through storytelling may help create environments that foster person centred care. This site was already very person-focussed; trials in larger and institutional sites would be beneficial to understand transferability.

 

 Kasia Bail1,2, Diane Gibson1, Stephanie Munk1, Rhiannon Toohey1, Stephen Isbel1, Nathan D'Cunha1

 

1.     University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, 2617 
2.    Canberra Health Services, Garran, ACT, 2605