Supporting safe walking for people with dementia: User participation in the development of new technology

Background Assistive technology is increasingly used to support people with dementia. One area attracting debate is the use of GPS systems. This paper presents the views of 12 people with dementia, 3 caregivers and 5 older people about GPS devices to promote safe walking. Methods Two focus groups were held, one in Scotland and one in England. Two researchers facilitated each group. Audio recordings were fully transcribed. Data were analysed using a qualitative, thematic approach. Results Walking and ‘getting out and about’ were common activities for participants and they reported that a GPS device would support them to go out independently with more confidence, or as their dementia progressed. Participants offered opinions on the design of the device and how it might be used in practice. GPS devices for people with dementia are considered useful by older people, people with dementia and family caregivers to support independence and increase self-confidence. Potential users of the device appear less concerned with the ethical issues relating to ‘tagging’ than those writing in academic journals and the media although they are interested in how the device might be used to promote independence rather than just as a safety precaution offering caregivers peace of mind. They also recommended that GPS devices be discreet rather than exacerbate any potential stigma. Conclusions Potential users of safe walking devices can see real potential to use the devices to increase independence while family carers see the benefits of reducing risk and addressing safety concerns. The inclusion of a user-engagement element to the device design process provided valuable information about how GPS devices might be used in the real world and specific ideas about different aspects of the device.