Technology use in supported living for people with dementia

A qualitative study exploring experiences of living and caring in technology-rich supported living environments for people living with dementia.

Key messages

  • wearable devices and mobile phones were commonly used in supported living settings
  • technology was associated with increased feelings of safety and reassurance for tenants
  • residents and carers actively sought support to improve digital skills
  • carers identified factors that enabled or hindered effective technology use
  • concerns were raised around privacy, consent and autonomy.

Policy implications

  • supported living models should integrate technology with clear consent and privacy safeguards
  • ongoing digital skills support benefits both tenants and carers
  • technology adoption should be embedded within care models rather than added informally
  • guidance is needed to support ethical use of monitoring technologies in dementia care.

Gaps

  • findings are limited to supported living environments
  • other housing and care settings were not included
  • low survey response rates may limit representativeness
  • further longitudinal ethnographic research is recommended.

Commentary
This study provides insight into how technology is woven into everyday life within supported living environments for people with dementia. Rather than being experienced as purely clinical tools, technologies such as wearables and mobile phones were often described as contributing to reassurance and a sense of security.

The findings also show that technology use is relational. Tenants’ ability to benefit depended on the support of both informal and formal carers, alongside opportunities to build digital confidence. Where this support was available, technology was more likely to be used in ways that aligned with residents’ preferences.

At the same time, the study highlights ethical tensions. Monitoring and assistive technologies raised questions about privacy, consent and autonomy, particularly as cognitive capacity changes over time. These concerns highlight the importance of clear governance and ongoing dialogue with tenants and carers.

Overall, the research suggests that technology can enhance supported living when it is thoughtfully integrated into care models. Ensuring that use remains person-centred, ethically grounded and supported over time is central to avoiding harm and enabling technology to contribute positively to dementia care.

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