Barriers and Facilitators to Access, Adoption, Use and Continued Engagement of Everyday Digital Technologies Among People Living with Dementia: A Scoping Review
Background
As everyday activities and public services become increasingly digital, access to digital technologies is essential for maintaining independence, social connections and access to health and care services. However, people living with dementia may face challenges using smartphones, computers, tablets and online services due to changes in memory, thinking and communication. While previous research has largely focused on assistive technologies such as GPS trackers and medication reminders, less attention has been given to the everyday digital technologies used by the wider population. There is currently limited understanding of the factors that support or hinder access, adoption and continued use of these technologies among people living with dementia.
Aims and Objectives
This project aims to improve understanding of the barriers and facilitators affecting access to, adoption, use and continued engagement with everyday digital technologies among people living with dementia. Specifically, the study will:
- Identify the types of everyday digital technologies used by people living with dementia.
- Explore factors that help or hinder technology access and use.
- Improve understanding of digital inclusion for people living with dementia.
- Identify evidence gaps to inform future research, service development and policy.
Methods
The study will conduct a scoping review of existing research evidence. Researchers will systematically identify, review and synthesise published literature on the use of everyday digital technologies by people living with dementia. Particular attention will be given to understanding barriers and facilitators related to access, adoption, use and continued engagement. The review will also consider demographic characteristics reported in included studies to identify potential gaps in representation and digital inclusion.
Further Information
This project is part of the Health and Care in our Ageing Society theme and focuses on Dementia.
The study is led by Amirah Akhtar, Research Associate at the University of Bradford, with Sahdia Parveen, Dementia Workstream Co-Lead, as the main study contact.
Findings are expected to be available by December 2026 and will be shared through a peer-reviewed journal publication and a plain English summary. The research is intended to help researchers, healthcare professionals, technology developers, commissioners and policymakers create more accessible digital services and technologies for people living with dementia, helping to reduce digital exclusion and inequalities.
Study duration: April 2026 to March 2027.