The use and satisfaction with assistive devices by older persons with cognitive impairments: A pilot intervention study

Frail older persons with cognitive impairments use fewer, and are less satisfied with, assistive devices than frail older persons who are not cognitively impaired. The study sought reasons for device dissatisfaction among older adults with cognitive impairments and assessed the impact of professional intervention on the use of, satisfaction with, and effectiveness of assistive devices. Twenty persons with cognitive impairments received a comprehensive assessment, individualized interventions, training, and follow- up. Results indicated that devices for physical impairments were more readily accepted and used than devices that addressed cognitive impairments. However, participants were more satisfied with cognitive devices. User satisfaction with physical devices appeared to increase with training and support. However, dissatisfaction with cognitive devices appeared to be more related to user limitations than training and support. The need for early intervention for persons with cognitive impairments is discussed, as is the need for further research on the effectiveness of assistive devices for these individuals.