Year: 2021
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Persons with dementia (PWD) often experience difficulty navigating their environments and performing out-of-home activities. Life-space mobility (LSM) is an effective way of assessing functional levels and independence. We present a dyadic case study to explore the feasibility of using a global positioning system (GPS) watch to measure LSM of a Latino PWD. Methods included travel diary, LSM questionnaire, and qualitative interviews in addition to the GPS–based mobility characterization. GPS data indicated that the PWD made outdoor trips regularly and was active socially, with day-to-day variations. Caregiver and PWD interviews revealed contextual information about mobility patterns captured by other methods. The dyad had positive perceptions of the GPS watch for tracking health and activities. This study demonstrated a use for wearable location tracking technology to support accurate LSM assessment in dementia that can inform nursing practice, policy, and research to promote well-being and delay functional deterioration in PWD. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47 (10), 15–22.]
Language: English
Subfield: Psychiatry and Mental health
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
Awards: G3222181187, G9000142298
OpenAlex ID: W3204501888