Exploring the use of a commercial digital gaming technological initiative to enable social inclusion for community-dwelling older men with dementia in rural England

This PhD thesis addresses the challenges of social inclusion for older men (65+ years) with dementia in rural England. This applied study used an individually-tailored male-only Technological Initiative, drawing on commercially available computer game technology (e.g. iPad, Nintendo Wii and Microsoft Kinect) to deliver person-centred activities to older men with dementia residing in three rural areas of England over a nine week period. Participatory Action Research (PAR) formed the framework for the conduct of the research. Multiple qualitative methods were employed to explore the perceived impact of the Technological Initiative on the men’s social inclusion. These included focus group discussions, open interviews and extensive reflexive field notes. Twenty two men participated in the research alongside fifteen care partners and five community volunteers. A thematic analysis was undertaken to interpret the data. The research demonstrated that whilst the men enjoyed rural life, aspects of rurality combined with their subjective experiences of dementia to hinder their social inclusion. The Technological Initiative appealed to the men and resulted in their increased social confidence and sense of well-being. Three features were integral to its success: the use of technology; the male-only environment; and the approach adopted. The technology enabled the men to re-engage with their old leisure interests, take part in new activities and so continue their learning and personal growth, and challenge assumptions about their abilities. The male-only environment promoted a sense of familiarity and camaraderie that relaxed the men and encouraged them to speak openly. The approach adopted sought to give voice to the men by situating them as experts in the evolution of the Technological Initiative. The thesis concludes by arguing that community ecopsychosocial initiatives designed to enable male social inclusion would be advised to consider these gendered experiences and promote them through the activities offered, the environment created and the method of delivery.