The future is becoming increasingly digital, a trend only accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic [1,2]. Our reliance on technology varies, especially when cognitive changes or impairment comes into play [3].
In this digital age, you may have noticed health programs are increasingly offered online, including those focused on brain health and dementia risk. Our team asked: Is an online format suitable for people already noticing changes with their cognition?
We surveyed 249 people aged 45 and older (77% female), including those with and without cognitive concerns, about their technology experiences and preferences for online programs. Here’s a snapshot of what we found:
Current use of technology:
Almost everyone owned a mobile (98%) or laptop (78%).
More than half (52%) increased their tech use since the COVID-19 pandemic.
About half (51%) faced challenges such as slow internet and difficulties viewing the screen.
Preferences for online programs:
The majority (92%) were interested in learning about healthy living and memory, if it was offered as an online course.
Many would prefer accessing an online program on a laptop or desktop computer, rather than on a mobile phone or tablet.
Only two-thirds (64%) were open to activities involving setting personal goals.
Insights into Cognitive Concerns:
Differences between those with and without cognitive concerns were minimal.
Those with cognitive concerns often used daily routines or systems to aid memory, suggesting that scheduled release of online modules and reminders could enhance online programs.
People with cognitive concerns also reported significantly more headaches when using devices, highlighting the need for clear, accessible language and adjustable font sizes.
It should be noted that our study was conducted online, and results should be interpreted with this in mind. Also, we were not able to differentiate between different stages of cognitive decline (e.g., mild cognitive impairment and dementia).
Despite some considerations, the results are informative, indicating strong interest among adults aged over 45, who are already adept with technology, for online brain health programs.
Would you like to read more?
To see the full findings of this study, please visit pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38746626/
Where did this work take place?
This work was completed within Prof Anstey’s lab which spans across both UNSW and NeuRA. Our team focuses on developing and validating accessible tools that support dementia risk reduction in the community and clinical settings.
Want to get involved in similar research projects?
Recruitment for this research was assisted by StepUp for Dementia Research, a national service supporting research participation in dementia research (please visit stepupfordementiaresearch.org.au or call 1800-7837-123 to sign up).
References
Budd, J., Miller, B. S., Manning, E. M., Lampos, V., Zhuang, M., Edelstein, M., Rees, G., Emery, V. C., Stevens, M. M., & Keegan, N. (2020). Digital technologies in the public-health response to COVID-19. Nature medicine, 26(8), 1183-1192. 2.
Orthia, L., Maccora, J., & McCallum, J. (2022). “I am trying to keep up to date…but it is moving so fast”: Older Australians’ Digital Engagement in Turbulent Times. C. N. S. Australia.
Johansson, S., Gulliksen, J., & Gustavsson, C. (2021). Disability digital divide: the use of the internet, smartphones, computers and tablets among people with disabilities in Sweden. Universal Access in the Information Society, 20(1), 105-120.
About the Author:
In 2021, Jess began her PhD at the University of New South Wales and NeuRA. Her research project explores mechanisms that could promote, or hinder behaviour change in the context of cognitive ageing and dementia risk reduction. Her project includes assessing both the participation in and the impact of behaviour change techniques in this field, with a special emphasis on goal setting.
Jess has an undergraduate degree in Applied Psychology from the University of Kent, UK, and two years of clinical experience with the NHS assisting people affected by dementia within the community. Moving to Australia, she shifted to a research-focused career. She has over 5 years’ experience as a trial manager, overseeing consumer-led design, development, delivery, and evaluation of RCTs evaluating behavioural interventions for dementia support and risk reduction. Jess is passionate about translational science, the complexities of human behaviour and the subsequent challenge of implementing change.