Predictors of intent to use digital memory books among informal dementia caregivers

Background: A memory book is a popular reminiscence approach for people with dementia (PwD) and caregivers. Recently, it has evolved into a digital format by incorporating music, videos, and other multimedia, referred to as a digital memory book (DMB). Like conventional memory books, DMBs have been found to improve the quality of life, cognition, communication, and mood among PwD and caregivers while reducing caregiver burden. Despite these benefits, the use of DMBs remains low, and there is limited research identifying factors that influence intent to use DMBs in this population. Research Aim: Considering that family caregivers are most often the facilitators of DMBs for PwD, this study examined predictors of intent to use DMB among informal dementia caregivers. Methods: Guided by the technology acceptance model, we analyzed data from 170 informal caregivers using linear regression analyses. Results: Dementia type, primary caregiver status, and caregiver age, race and ethnicity, education, health, and relationship to the care recipient were significantly related to intent to use DMB, suggesting these characteristics may serve as possible predictors, to be confirmed in future longitudinal studies. We also found a significant interaction effect between dementia type (Alzheimer’s disease vs. other dementias) and stage (mild vs. moderate to severe; b = 0.493, SE = 0.217, p = .025). Differences in intent to use DMB between mild and moderate to severe stages were significantly greater among Alzheimer’s caregivers compared to caregivers of other dementias (ΔM = 0.45 vs. 0.05, respectively). Conclusion: Considering these factors is crucial for developing DMB programs. Furthermore, understanding the type and stage of dementia during the design phase may help optimize desired features and outcomes for potential users, including PwD and caregivers.