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13 - Using Digital Communication Support in Interaction Involving People with Dementia

Interactional Strategies to Facilitate Participation and Engagement

from Part 5 - Communicative Challenges in Everyday Social Life

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 November 2024

By
Christina Samuelsson  and
Anna Ekström
Edited by
Peter Muntigl ,
Charlotta Plejert  and
Danielle Jones
Peter Muntigl
Affiliation:
Universiteit Gent, Belgium
Charlotta Plejert
Affiliation:
Linköpings Universitet, Sweden
Danielle Jones
Affiliation:
University of Bradford
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Summary

This chapter explores the challenges faced by individuals with dementia and their caregivers in communication. It focuses on the potential of personalized communication applications on tablet computers to support interactions. While various communication aids have proven valuable in addressing dementia-related communication issues, digital tools like tablet computers are relatively new in this context. The analysis centers on two key aspects of interaction: caregivers’ use of questions and the management of communication support devices. Results reveal that questioning individuals with dementia can be both challenging and rewarding. The chapter emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding potential issues with certain types of questions and the readiness to address difficulties in interaction. Regarding the management of digital applications, the study suggests that aligning with the associations of the person with dementia and being responsive to their contributions may enhance conversation development. The findings underscore the significance of prioritizing conversation over facts and being attuned to the person with dementia’s conversational trajectory to promote their active participation and engagement. Overall, understanding how the management of communication support influences outcomes may enhance the effectiveness of such tools in facilitating meaningful conversations with individuals with dementia.

Keywords

digital communication supportquestionsconversationparticipationengagement
Type
Chapter
Information
Dementia and Language
The Lived Experience in Interaction
 , pp. 292 - 315
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2024

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