Design and Prototype of a Device to Engage Cognitively Disabled Older Adults in Visual Artwork

Blunsden, S; Richards, B; Bartindale, T; Jackson, D; Olivier, P

Design and Prototype of a Device to Engage Cognitively Disabled Older Adults in Visual Artwork

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Tom Bartindale, Dan Jackson ORCiD, Professor Patrick Olivier ORCiD

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Abstract

We investigate technological solutions for arts therapists who work with older adults with cognitive disabilities, such as Alzheimer's disease. We present ethnographic analysis of a survey of arts therapists in the UK and Canada, and show how there is a need for devices that can be used to promote autonomy and independence through engagement with creative visual arts. We then demonstrate a novel device that uses a touch-screen interface, and articial intelligence software to monitor and interact with a user. Using a probabilistic model, the device monitors the behaviours of a user as well as aspects of their aective or internal state, including their responsiveness and engagement with the device. The device then uses decision theoretic reasoning to take situated actions that promote engagement from the user. We show how the device ts with the ethnographic design, and we give a laboratory demonstration of the functionality of the device. We present and discuss our next steps with this device, including end user testing.