Closer to nature: Multi-sensory engagement in interactive nature experience for seniors with dementia

Yuan Feng, Suihuai Yu, Dirk van de Mortel, Emilia Barakova, Matthias Rauterberg, Jun Hu

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionAcademicpeer-review

    13 Citations (Scopus)
    13 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    People with dementia experience gradually diminished functional abilities caused by this disease. Declined cognitive functioning, increased difficulties in mobility, loss of memory and the lack of inner motivation provides inevitable challenges in engaging this group of people in activities. In this paper, we elaborate on the possibilities of utilizing an iterative installation design, based on the original prototype of Closer to Nature for improving quality of life of people with dementia in Long-Term Care. The installation was built as a permanent part of the living environment in a Dutch nursing home with the purpose of long-term use. User evaluation in real-life setting was conducted with 15 residents, 4 family members and 2 professional caregivers. Preliminary user feedback was gathered through interviews and showed sufficient positive evidence of enhanced engagement. Additionally, a new design concept developed upon insights from the user evaluation is introduced which utilizes a plaster goat covered with sensors for initiating interactions. Implications and future studies of the designs are proposed.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationProceedings of Chinese CHI 2018 - 6th International Symposium of Chinese CHI, ChineseCHI 2018
    Place of PublicationNew York
    PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery, Inc
    Pages49-56
    Number of pages8
    VolumePart F137135
    ISBN (Electronic)978-1-4503-6508-6
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 21 Apr 2018
    Event6th International Symposium of Chinese CHI, Chinese CHI 2018 - Montreal, Canada
    Duration: 21 Apr 201822 Apr 2018
    Conference number: 6
    http://chchi2018.icachi.org/

    Publication series

    NameACM International Conference Proceeding Series

    Conference

    Conference6th International Symposium of Chinese CHI, Chinese CHI 2018
    Abbreviated titleChinese CHI2018
    Country/TerritoryCanada
    CityMontreal
    Period21/04/1822/04/18
    Internet address

    Keywords

    • Interaction design
    • Long-term care
    • Multi-sensory stimulation
    • People with dementia

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