When it comes to dementia prevention, education is needed. It is „still largely unknown in the population that and by what methods dementias can be prevented,“ write researchers from Germany. They investigated what dementia-related digital information materials are available. They also analyzed how the materials are content-wise prepared regarding risk factors, treatment measures, and so-called decision support tools, such as advance directives.
Digital information is an important way to provide broadly understandable, high-quality health information to large segments of the population, according to the study. This includes, among other things, printed brochures, information that can be accessed on websites, or information available in a hybrid format, such as downloadable fact sheets. Digital and hybrid formats in particular are often used. „They are also a relevant source of information for older target groups and their caregivers and relatives.“
The researchers evaluated 100 digital informational materials published by health websites, clinics, and health insurance companies, among others. The information had to be free and readily available online. The scientists reached the conclusion: „Most of the information is prepared for people with dementia and their partners and relatives.“ Potentially affected individuals, i.e., all people who have not yet received a dementia diagnosis, are rarely addressed.
„Balanced and understandable digital information on dementia is an important building block in dementia prevention, as it strengthens one's own health literacy.“
Anne Keefer, digiDEM Bavaria Scientist
Treatment options for dementia were mentioned in more informational materials than risk factors. Looking more closely at the aspect of risk factors, individually modifiable risk factors were mentioned most often in the materials. However, the researchers criticize: „The analysis suggests that the presentation of risk factors and treatment options should be more balanced in order to create a more comprehensive understanding.“ For good reason. Because individual treatment measures cannot be understood without first providing comprehensive information about the relevant risk factors.
Once a dementia diagnosis has been made, numerous decisions often need to be made – such as which treatment measures should be initiated or whether an advance directive should be drawn up. However, the authors have found that the informational materials rarely address preventive measures intended to aid decision-making.
Tip for practice:
Utilize currently available digital information and expand your health literacy. However, for those affected, interested parties, and professionals to acquire comprehensive and accessible dementia-related knowledge, even more information about risk factors, treatment measures, and decision support must be made available digitally and/or in a hybrid format.
Here you can access the study.
digiDEM Bayern develops digital offerings for people with cognitive impairments and dementia, as well as for caregivers and volunteer helpers, and offers the services on digiDEM-Bayern.de.
Test your knowledge about Alzheimer's dementia now: Here's the dementia knowledge test.
With the online questionnaire „Assessment of Memory Performance,“ close contacts of affected individuals can assess their cognitive decline. Online questionnaire „Assessment of Memory Performance“.
As dementia progresses, the need for care also increases. With our digiDEM Bayern DEMAND® questionnaire, caregivers can identify their own care needs and learn where to find help and support: To the survey digiDEM Bayern DEMAND®.
Here are the past issues of our newsletter digiDEM Bavaria DIGITAL Update.
