Usability testing of the first prototype of the Memento system: a technological device to promote an independent living in people with dementia

Abstract

Purpose

Assistive technologies have the potential for supporting people with memory complaints in their daily life. User-centered interaction design research helps developers to create systems that are suitable for users. The aim of this work is to describe the methodology and the results of the usability test for the first Memento prototype involving users.

Materials and methods

In each country, 5 subjects with different levels of cognitive reserve and technical proficiency were enrolled in Italy, Austria and Spain, respectively (15 subjects; 6 M; 9 F, age 72.8 ± 10.8 years, MMSE score 25.6 ± 1.6). Observation methods, performance metrics and the System Usability Scale were used to collect data.

Results

The results are presented in terms of design, technical problems, target-group-related challenges and usability perception from the participant perspective. Suggestions for improvement were pointed out by the users. Considering the usability scores interpretation, the first prototype was classified as “OK” and “Good” by users.

Conclusions

The results of the Lab Trials provide important information on usability and the users’ needs in order to improve the Memento prototype and to create a final system to be evaluated during the Field Trials phase of the project.

Implication for rehabilitation

• The MEMENTO project mission is to improve the quality of life of people in the early and middle stages of dementia, by supporting the management of daily activities that are usually affected by the loss of memory and cognition. The Lab Trial phase is essential to have feedback on the usability of the Memento prototype to allow a better understanding of users' needs and expectations.

Keywords:

• Memento
• dementia
• everyday activities
• memory problems
• assistive technology

Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the users who collaborated with the Gerontological and Geriatric Session at the Department of the University of Medicine in Perugia, Medical University of Vienna and Bidaideak – Sociedad Vasca de Personas con Diversidad Funcional. A special thanks to all the professionals who take part to the Memento Project.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The Memento project was co-funded by the AAL Joint Programme (AAL-2016-069) and the following National Authorities and R&D programs from Austria, Cyprus, Italy and Bizkaia/Spain: BMK, program benefit, FFG (AT), RPF (CY), Miur (IT) and Bizkaia (ES).