Enhancing support ecosystems and assistive technologies for family caregivers of individuals with dementia in Austria : a comprehensive analysis & improvement suggestions

Abstract

According to the Austrian Dementia Report, an estimated 115,000 to 130,000 people suffer from various forms of dementia in Austria. Given the aging population, this number is expected to double by 2050. Although there have been remarkable advances in Assistive Technologies, solutions are mainly tailored to patients, unintentionally overshadowing the central role of caregivers, particularly family caregivers. Family caregivers, the study’s primary focus, often juggle caregiving responsibilities alongside their own full-time work obligations. Furthermore, the lack of eligibility for state-financed professional care leaves many families without adequate financial and physical resources, intensifying the reported social isolation and invisibility, emotional strain, technological deficits, and legal challenges, among others. Hence, the present research aimed to explore the state of family caregivers in Austria, examine existing support structures, and assess the role of technology in the caregiving landscape. It also sought to identify potential areas for technological improvement while respecting caregivers’ preferences, including the hypothetical scenario where technology might be undesired due to the sensitive nature of the caregiving role. To support these findings, information was gathered through current research projects, literature reviews, and interviews with experts and individuals with lived experiences in Austria. A design thinking workshop was subsequently conducted, involving family caregivers and selected stakeholders, to co-design realistic ideas and requirements for potential future technologies and concepts. The findings of the workshop revealed several areas where technology was both desired and beneficial. These included solutions for enhancing the efficiency of everyday task management through role-based digital calendars. It also highlighted the need for a comprehensive, digital single source of support structures and networking opportunities. Additionally, the development of digital guides for care allowance applications and a bundled information package was proposed to support new caregivers in their initial caregiving journey.Given the complexity of the findings, the study next concentrated on investigating solutions for digital calendars. This focus was intentionally narrowed to ensure a qualitative outcome, resulting in the development of a user-centered use case accompanied by functional requirements for potential Assistive Technologies. Future work suggested by the study includes validating these proposed concepts with study participants or further family caregivers, and stakeholders. Furthermore, an extensive exploration of outcomes from the distinct focus groups within the Design Thinking Workshop is recommended.In summary, the study underscored the urgent need for effective technology integration, as younger, tech-savvy generations will increasingly face the rising prevalence of dementia and may assume caregiving roles. Despite the current deficit in technological solutions, the research revealed a positive receptiveness among the target group toward new technologies. The willingness of participants to engage in co-design workshops was instrumental in ensuring that their needs and perspectives were comprehensively addressed, thus underscoring the importance of incorporating user feedback into the development of future technologies.