The influence of technological tools on Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and Quality of Life in older adults with a cognitive impairment: A single group pretest-posttest

Abstract

Background: The growing number of older adults is accompanied with an increase in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. In independent living, the ability to perform Instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) is critical and has an impact on the experienced quality of life (QOL). Technological tools could support in maintaining IADL and QOL. Aim: This study determined the influence of technological tools after one year of use on IADL and QOL in older adults with MCI or mild dementia living at home. Method: A pre-experimental, pretest-posttest, study was performed using data from another study. Used data was collected at the participants’ home with questionnaires. With the Wilcoxon Signed-rank test IADL and QOL was compared between pretest and posttest. Intervention: Participants used one or more technological tools of preference in the categories orientation, day structure, social contact or safety. Results: Fifty participants were included in pretest and seven participated in posttest. No statistical significant difference was found in the demographic characteristics between the pretest group and the group who had a posttest. The participants (n=7) had a statistical significant decline in IADL performing in comparison to pretest (p=.042). The results on QOL showed no statistical significant difference (p=.866). Conclusion: A decline in performing IADL can be seen as a normal process in MCI and dementia and not necessarily caused by technological tools. The experienced QOL remained almost the same and is not in line with the normal decline in QOL in MCI and dementia. The findings suggest that people with MCI and dementia are likely to benefit using technological tools in daily practice. Recommendations: Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended. Including a control group could exclude other influences like regular care in the Netherlands.