Tapping into the Future – Touchscreen Technology for People with Dementia: A Scoping Review

This scoping review examines the impact of mainstream touchscreen technologies on people with dementia, exploring both their benefits and challenges. It provides a focused synthesis of research on the design and adaptation of mainstream touchscreen devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches. A thematic analysis of 18 studies identified three key themes: barriers to digital inclusion, recommendations for dementia-friendly touchscreen design, and the potential of personalised interfaces. Findings suggest that during moments of stress, frustration, or fatigue, adaptive systems could enhance human–computer interaction. However, further research is needed to determine how such adaptations can be implemented in a balanced way, ensuring personalisation features remain sensitive to individual needs without overwhelming or restricting them. The review emphasises the necessity for ongoing research to understand how interaction variables evolve over time in people with dementia and how interfaces could proactively adapt to their changing abilities.