Usability of a memory aid handbook for older people with subjective cognitive impairment-An explorative pilot study

Abstract

Background: Memory problems are common in advanced age. Memory strategies can be used to manage such challenges. To assist older people facing memory problems, we conducted a pilot study to evaluate the usability of a memory aid handbook that we developed specifically for this purpose.

Method: A memory aid handbook with a 7-week program was developed based on a systematic review. A total of 19 older people with self-reported memory problems (mean age: 76.11 years, female: 73.68%) tested the memory aid handbook and completed the System Usability Scale (SUS), a checklist on the relevance of the strategies in the handbook, and questionnaires on daily life functioning and self-efficacy. Further, they participated in cognitive tests. In a pre-post design, within-subject differences were determined using paired t-tests.

Results: The usability of the memory aid handbook scores as were high (mean SUS score: 99.21). The checklist indicated that the handbook was perceived as beneficial for confirming already established memory strategies and stimulating new ones, such as self-acceptance, visualizing and verbalizing daily routines, and asking for help. In addition, the checklist revealed that using a calendar was considered the most helpful strategies for daily living, followed closely by taking notes, having specific places for certain items and creating routines in daily life. After the 7 weeks, participants scored significantly better in the cognitive and self-efficacy tests. The exploratory nature of the study combined with the small sample size should be considered when interpreting the results.

Conclusion: The usability of the handbook was high, reflecting the relevance of the strategies it contains. Teaching memory strategies can be a useful, inexpensive method to foster independence among those at risk for cognitive impairment.

Keywords: cognitive aging; health services for the aged; healthy aging; memory strategies; usability.