Mobile app used to gamify communication training for dementia caregivers in Singapore

Dementia caregiving presents numerous challenges, often due to communication difficulties and behavioral changes associated with the condition. To address these issues, Singapore's Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and digital health services provider Taggle have collaborated to develop Play2Care, a mobile application designed to enhance dementia caregiving through interactive gameplay.

The innovative app aims to provide caregivers with effective communication strategies, simplifying the complexities of dementia care.

How does it work?

Dementia is commonly misunderstood as a condition limited to memory loss. However, it also involves significant behavioral changes that complicate care for both those with dementia and their caregivers. Dr. Yao Fengyuan, Senior Consultant and Chief, Department of Geriatric Psychiatry at IMH, explains that these behavioral changes arise from communication difficulties and cognitive decline, leading to frustration and misunderstandings.

Play2Care immerses caregivers in realistic scenarios tailored to Singapore's context, such as navigating a familiar HDB flat environment and interacting with local cuisine. The app incorporates gamification and instructional videos to teach the T.A.N.G.O approach, a communication strategy developed by IMH clinicians.

What is T.A.N.G.O?

The T.A.N.G.O strategy focuses on:

• Tender Approach: Providing comfort and reassurance through patience and supportive body language.
• Acknowledge: Validating emotions and unmet needs.
• No Challenging: Avoiding confrontations and offering gentle cues and prompts instead.
• Get into Simple Conversation: Using familiar phrases and clear choices to facilitate communication.
• Optimize Environment: Making environmental adjustments to enhance engagement and independence.

The app features mini-games like "Spot the Difference" and "Find the Hidden Purse," engaging caregivers while stimulating cognitive skills in their loved ones.

Why does it matter?

It matters because it works!

Before its official release, Play2Care underwent pilot testing with caregivers, yielding positive results:

• 100% of participants reported improvement in their Dementia Attitude Scale (DAS) scores.
• 80% felt more comfortable interacting with persons with dementia.
• 60% noted enhanced knowledge of the condition.

Ms. Ong Xin Ling, Senior Occupational Therapist at IMH, emphasizes the app's role in expanding accessibility to caregiver education: "Traditional methods of psychoeducation are no longer sufficient. Play2Care offers a dynamic platform for caregivers to practice and implement communication strategies in a safe, simulated environment," she said.

Play2Care, designed with elderly-friendly features and informed by caregiver insights, serves as a valuable resource for families managing dementia caregiving complexities.

"We are excited about the potential of Play2Care to transform dementia caregiving. By blending technology with compassionate care strategies, we aim to alleviate caregiver stress and enhance the quality of life for both caregivers and care receivers," added Mr. Lee Seng Beo, CEO of Taggle.

The context

Play2Care leverages technology to improve access to dementia caregiving resources, empowering caregivers in their journey.

By providing practical tools and insights, the app addresses immediate challenges while fostering a more compassionate and supportive caregiving environment for those living with dementia.