HOMEDEM is looking for individuals to participate in a study

Nov 21

Description of the study:

In dementia care research, we currently have newer technologies available for the assessment of various symptoms. These include data collection with sensors and data collection using digital diaries. In our study we will be assessing nighttime agitation in people with dementia using these two methods. The data will be collected over the period of 14 days, however due to the nature of passive sensor technologies minimal effort will be required from the participants. By obtaining data over the longer period of time we will obtain fine-grained information on how much individuals with dementia differ from each other regarding the nighttime agitation as well as how much individuals fluctuate within themselves from night to night regarding the same phenomenon. This information will be informative for the development of interventions for nighttime agitation and for insights into new ways of assessment using digital technologies.

study information

recruitment flyer

What does participation actually look like?

First meeting over the phone.
- During the first phone call, the main researcher will provide a short explanation of the study to see whether the participant indicates that they are interested in taking part in the study. If the participant is interested, they will agree on the possible date and time the researchers can come to their home to explain the study further.
First home visit.
- After further clarification of the study, the caregiver (possibly after consultation with the person with dementia) will be asked to read and sign an informed consent form. Only after signing the consent form can the study start. The researchers will then explain the practical aspects and install it.
During the study (14 days).
- During the two weeks of the study the bed sensor will measure entry bedtime, time asleep, exit bedtime and time awake of the person with dementia. 
- Every morning, the caregiver will be asked to report (using a short questionnaire) on how the previous night was and whether any disturbance occurred, as well as give a rating of perceived uncontrollability during the night.
- If any problems with the technological equipment arise, participants should contact a Dutch-speaking student assistant.
Second home visit.
- When the two weeks are over the researchers will come back to collect the equipment and to do a debriefing regarding how individuals experienced the participation in the study and answer any remaining questions that they might have. All participants will be offered the possibility to obtain the results once the study is published.
After the study.
- If any questions about the study remain, participants can always contact the supervisor.