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Technological 
Innovations in Dementia 
Care: The Role of Social 
Work Advocacy
ESTHER PARK



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TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS IN DEMENTIA CARE

AUTHOR’S NOTE
At the time of this paper’s writing, the U.S. federal government was 
undergoing a presidential transition. As a result, significant changes 
have been made to federal government websites, including the removal 
or modification of policies, webpages, and datasets. These limitations 
in information availability, along with policy shifts under the new 
administration, may affect some of the resources, government programs, 
and funding opportunities discussed in this paper. Future research will be 
needed to evaluate the long-term impact of these changes on equitable 
access to dementia care technologies, public access to essential data 
for caregivers and healthcare professionals, and the role of social work 
advocacy in supporting affected communities. 

ABSTRACT
According to the World Health Organization (2023), dementia affects 
over 55 million people across the globe, projected to increase to 139 
million individuals by the year 2050. The caregiver burden, which 
compounds over the years of illness, includes emotional, physical, and 
financial challenges. These challenges disproportionately impact low-
income and minority communities (Mickens et al., 2020). This research 
paper explores the role of technology in alleviating these challenges by 
improving the quality of life of both persons with dementia (PWDs) 
and their caregivers. Current technological tools, including healthcare 
monitoring tools, location-tracking devices, and reminiscence therapy 
platforms, are analyzed for their strengths in addressing the cognitive 
and safety needs of PWDs. I also address limitations such as financial 
barriers, digital literacy gaps, and accessibility challenges among older 
adult populations. The study emphasizes the significant role of social 
workers in advocating for equitable, person-centered care through policy 
and community-level interventions. Recommendations for social workers 
are provided, including promoting digital literacy programs, subsidizing 
assistive technology costs, and prioritizing user-centered designs to 
ensure equitable access to dementia care technologies.

ESTHER PARK

INNOVATIONS IN DEMENTIA CARE: THE 
ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIAL  
WORK ADVOCACY
Dementia, a progressive neurodegenerative condition, leads to a wide 
array of cognitive impairments, including memory loss, difficulty with 
language, and a reduced ability to perform daily activities (Rahman & 
Howard, 2018). Globally, over 55 million people live with dementia, and 
this number is projected to reach 139 million by the year 2050 (World 
Health Organization [WHO], 2025). This significant increase emphasizes 
the urgent need to address the numerous challenges associated with 
dementia care. These concerns include ensuring the safety of persons 
with dementia (PWDs), alleviating the caregiving burden on their 
caregivers, and improving the quality of life for both groups.
 
UNDERSTANDING DEMENTIA

Dementia is an umbrella term for over 100 distinct conditions, with 
Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent and well-known (Mace & 
Rabins, 2017). PWDs experience a range of cognitive and noncognitive 
symptoms over time. Cognitive issues, particularly in short-term memory 
and learning, are often early and generally well-known signs of the 
condition. Noncognitive symptoms include neuropsychiatric conditions 
such as physical aggression and restlessness, wandering behaviors, 
decreased sexual drive, and inappropriate social behaviors like cursing or 
hoarding (Biernacki, 2007).

Symptoms of dementia often begin on a mild level, such as forgetfulness 
or difficulty using precise diction; they eventually progress to more 
severe impairments. In the early stages of the condition, PWDs may 
maintain some independence in daily life but begin to struggle with more 
complex tasks. As the condition advances, they often require assistance 
with basic activities such as dressing and eating. In its late stages, 
dementia leads to complete dependence on caregivers for all aspects of 
daily living (Rahman & Howard, 2018). Given that these symptoms shift 



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over time, PWDs often unwillingly experience emotional, cognitive, and 
social disruptions that decrease their quality of life.

CAREGIVER BURDEN AND TRENDS

The progressive and severe nature of dementia makes caregiving for 
PWDs particularly demanding. According to the Centers for Disease 
Control and Prevention (CDC; 2024), 80% of people with dementia are 
cared for at home, with 16 million caregivers providing care to their 
family members and friends. One in three caregivers is 65 or older 
(CDC, 2024) and thus experiences the unique social, financial, and 
physical vulnerabilities that impact the older adult population.

Caregivers help manage activities of daily living (ADLs) for those 
affected by dementia, which include essential tasks like bathing, eating, 
and toileting, as well as more complex tasks like managing medications, 
finances, and transportation. A survey of 11.5 million families and other 
caregivers of individuals with dementia reported that these caregivers 
provide approximately 31 hours of unpaid help per week (Alzheimer’s 
Association, 2024). As a result, caregivers for PWDs experience a range 
of challenges that may lead to burnout, defined as a state of physical, 
emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by the stressors and demands of 
caregiving (Maslach & Leiter, 2016). As they witness the gradual decline 
of their loved ones, caregivers often experience emotional challenges 
including grief, guilt, and depression (Mace & Rabins, 2017). Physically, 
the caregiving role frequently leads to fatigue and health deterioration 
due to chronic stress and disruptions in regular sleep patterns (Mace & 
Rabins, 2017). Financial challenges include significant costs of medical 
care and the potential loss of income due to caregiving responsibilities. 
These challenges make dementia one of the most costly conditions to 
manage (Alzheimer’s Association, 2019).

For marginalized communities, these challenges are further compounded 
by systemic inequities, including limited access to healthcare, 
technological tools, and caregiver support services. Research shows 

that racial and ethnic minority caregivers are more likely to experience 
higher caregiving burdens due to disparities in healthcare access and 
socioeconomic barriers (Mickens et al., 2020). African Americans are 
twice as likely as white Americans to develop dementia, and Hispanic 
Americans are 1.5 times more likely (Alzheimer’s Association, 2019). 
Yet these groups often experience significantly lower access to diagnostic 
services, treatment options, and caregiver support programs (Gaugler 
et al., 2020). Additionally, caregivers in low-income households are 
particularly vulnerable to financial stress. They also face additional 
barriers to accessing paid care services (Andrén & Elmståhl, 2007), thus 
increasing susceptibility to caregiver burnout. 

THE PRESENT STUDY
In the context of these systemic and daily challenges faced by caregivers 
and individuals with dementia, technology significantly enhances 
dementia care. Technological advancements provide increasing benefits 
for older individuals with dementia, as well as for their caregivers 
(Allen, 2020). Various technological tools, such as assistive devices 
and telehealth platforms (Saragih et al., 2022), are being integrated into 
dementia care in increasing numbers, using innovation to address the 
needs and demands of dementia care.

However, equitable access to such technology remains a challenge. 
Caregivers’ willingness and ability to use these tools may be influenced 
by economic barriers, digital literacy, and the additional cognitive 
load required to learn new systems. Older caregivers in particular may 
struggle with adopting unfamiliar digital platforms, while underserved 
populations may have less access to essential assistive technologies (Leff 
et al., 2025). When implemented with an ethical and inclusive approach 
that prioritizes accessibility, affordability, and cultural sensitivity, 
technology can help manage the safety and cognitive symptoms of PWDs 
while simultaneously alleviating caregiver burdens. Thus, technology can 
play a significant role in increasing the quality of life of both individuals 
with dementia and their caregivers.

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The present study first delves into the strengths of various innovative 
tools currently being used in dementia care, such as healthcare 
technologies and location-tracking devices to address the wandering 
behaviors of PWDs. Next, the limitations of these technologies are 
discussed, followed by actionable strategies for social workers on policy 
and community-level interventions to promote inclusive, accessible 
solutions for integrating technology into dementia care. 

TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS IN 
DEMENTIA CARE

HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGIES FOR  
DEMENTIA CARE

Healthcare technologies for dementia care have numerous applications in 
both homes and care facilities, and have been shown to play a significant 
role in relieving stressors for both care recipients and caregivers (Allen, 
2020). From a medical standpoint, video monitoring technology supports 
the treatment of patients by providing useful content for care plan 
discussions with healthcare professionals and more immediate feedback 
for caregivers of individuals with dementia. Additional healthcare 
technologies include the following, which collectively ensure the quality 
of treatments, general safety, and daily care for individuals with dementia 
(Allen, 2020):
• Exit sensors to manage wandering behaviors
• Flood, carbon monoxide, and extreme temperature detectors to 

maintain environmental safety
• Bed occupancy sensors
• Medication reminders

Further technological innovations in clinical treatments for dementia 
have been identified in recent years, including those that address the 
complex socioemotional challenges associated with dementia. One such 
advance is the integration of technology into reminiscence therapy, a 
therapeutic approach used in dementia care that encourages individuals 

with dementia to recall and share memories from their past (Woods et 
al., 2018). This approach has been demonstrated to improve emotional 
mood, social interactions, and cognitive functioning among PWDs 
(Woods et al., 2018). Based on this evidence-based approach, researchers 
Huldtgren, Vormann, and Geiger (2015a, 2015b) have explored methods 
of using a specially designed computerized mapping program to facilitate 
reminiscence therapy for people with dementia. Tools like interactive 
mapping software assist in memory recall and strengthen bonds between 
PWDs and their caregivers, contributing to a therapeutic environment 
and positive social connections. These e-health platforms incorporate 
multimedia elements such as photos, audio, and videos to provide 
personalized experiences for patients (Huldtgren et al., 2015a, 2015b), 
further enhancing the intervention’s effectiveness. 

By enhancing reminiscence therapy with technology, these innovations 
provide significant emotional and psychological relief for both PWDs 
and their caregivers. For PWDs, reliving positive past experiences can 
improve mood, reduce anxiety, and strengthen cognitive function (Woods 
et al., 2018). For caregivers, these tools offer an opportunity to engage 
with their loved ones in a structured and meaningful way, reducing the 
stress and emotional burden often associated with dementia care. 

These innovations play an important role in engaging PWDs emotionally 
and cognitively, important aspects in maintaining cognitive health and 
mitigating the symptoms of dementia. Meanwhile, caregivers also benefit 
from such technologies, as they help alleviate the physical and emotional 
burdens associated with caregiving. For instance, telehealth services and 
remote monitoring systems allow caregivers to oversee the health and 
safety of PWDs while maintaining their own personal and professional 
commitments. Smart medication dispensers ensure that PWDs adhere 
to prescribed treatments without requiring constant reminders from 
caregivers, thus reducing stress and improving time management (Patel 
et al., 2022). By allowing caregivers to maintain a sense of balance 
between personal and caregiving responsibilities, these tools support 
their mental health and ongoing resilience despite the strain of providing 
care to PWDs (Mace & Rabins, 2017).

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TECHNOLOGIES TO MANAGE  
WANDERING BEHAVIORS
Among the safety concerns surrounding PWDs is the prevalence of 
wandering behaviors. Research by Algase et al. (2007) defines wandering 
as “a syndrome of dementia-related locomotion behaviour having a 
frequent, repetitive, temporally-disordered and/or spatially-disoriented 
nature that is manifested in lapping, random, and/or pacing patterns, 
some of which are associated with eloping” (p. 723). These behaviors 
have been observed to stem from a range of variables, such as immersion 
in unfamiliar environments, mood-related agitation caused by brain 
damage, or disorientation in general. Research shows that wandering 
behavior substantially increases the risk of injury and/or fatalities, 
caused by, for example, being struck by vehicles or succumbing 
to environmental hazards (Byard & Langlois, 2019). As a result, 
PWDs exhibiting wandering behaviors may find themselves in at-risk 
environments or become lost, leading to the potential for physical harm 
or even death.

Approximately 60% of individuals with dementia will experience 
wandering during the course of the disease (Alzheimer’s Association, 
2022). This leads to additional challenges for a significant proportion of 
PWDs and their caregivers, who may experience fearfulness and anxiety 
as a result. To address these concerns, several low-tech strategies are 
often implemented, such as PWDs carrying reminders to remain calm 
and call home or wearing medical bracelets that provide critical health 
information and emergency contact numbers (Mace & Rabins, 2017). 
As technology has advanced, however, innovative products have been 
designed to both prevent and respond to wandering behaviors among 
PWDs. 

In particular, wearable devices equipped with location tracking features, 
such as GPS-enabled bracelets, watches, or even shoe inserts, allow 
caregivers to manage the location of PWDs in real time. For example, 
GPS SmartSole is a water-resistant device discreetly embedded in the 
sole of a shoe. This technological tool was developed for individuals with 

dementia, autism, or traumatic brain injury who are prone to wandering. 
The product is recharged daily, offering real-time location updates and 
helping protect the safety of PWDs (Nunes, 2021).

Another innovative tool to address the risks of wandering behaviors is 
AngelSense, a location tracker designed to securely attach to clothing. 
This device offers all-day monitoring of arrivals, departures, and travel 
speeds, along with automatic alerts when the individual enters unfamiliar 
geographic areas. Additional features include a two-way voice function 
and a first-responder emergency alert, which enhances the safety of 
persons with dementia (AngelSense, n.d.).

In addition to these wearable, location-based devices, video monitoring 
systems have become increasingly popular. These systems allow 
caregivers to observe individuals remotely and intervene promptly 
during emergencies. Features such as motion detection and automated 
alerts help maintain a balance between ensuring safety and promoting 
independence for PWDs (Allen, 2020). 
 
LIMITATIONS IN TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS
However, these technological tools are not without limitations. For 
example, a significant barrier to technology adoption among older adults 
is the pervasive gap in financial resources and digital literacy, defined as 
competence in one’s technical understanding of technology (Vercruyssen, 
et al., 2023). This problem is exacerbated by insufficient access to 
training and resources. Many older adults, particularly those from low-
income and minority populations (McCreadie & Tinker, 2005), lack 
the digital skills or financial resources to navigate these technological 
tools, which limits their ability to benefit from digital innovations. This 
issue is particularly concerning because one-third of caregivers are older 
adults themselves, leaving both caregivers and those they support at a 
disadvantage in accessing these digital resources (Costa & Moniz, 2024).

Additionally, these technologies present challenges in meeting the 
diverse needs of users, such as older adults and caregivers, who are 

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more susceptible to physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations. These 
issues arise in part from the lack of accessible design of these products, 
including poor usability, such as lacking help and search options and 
limited instructions, and not tailoring features to individual impairments 
and disabilities (Hassan et al., 2022). Consequently, the digital tools 
intended to enhance support for individuals with disabilities and their 
caregivers are often underused (Hassan et al., 2022).

Moreover, current literature reveals a gap in examining the effectiveness 
of interventions, including technological tools, among communities 
of color. While existing academic research clearly establishes that 
ethnic minority caregivers of individuals with dementia experience 
disproportionately higher levels of caregiver burden, it also highlights 
significant limitations in understanding how these technological tools 
benefit marginalized populations, such as PWDs and caregivers of color 
(Kindratt et al., 2023; Liu et al., 2022). Further research is needed to 
analyze their unique barriers and needs related to technology utilization; 
only a few studies have explored how these tools can be adapted to better 
serve PWDs and their caregivers. Without such attention, disparities in 
access to and adoption of technological tools and interventions will likely 
persist.

Finally, implementing technological tools for PWDs and their caregivers 
poses ethical concerns. From data privacy and informed consent for 
location-tracking technologies, to obstacles in the equitable distribution 
of resources, these concerns call for action that is grounded in the social 
justice–oriented principles of social work. Social workers play a pivotal 
role in confronting these barriers for these vulnerable populations by 
promoting equitable access to caregiving technologies from program- 
and policy-level standpoints. 
 
IMPLICATIONS FOR SOCIAL WORK 
PRACTICE
Several existing macro-level initiatives provide an excellent framework 
for social workers to address gaps in digital literacy and financial 

resources that lead to barriers in accessing technology for dementia 
care. For example, California’s Access to Technology program provided 
$48 million to communities and organizations to spearhead digital 
literacy initiatives, including digital literacy education programs and 
funding for technological devices, for adults with disabilities and older 
adults (California Department of Aging, n.d.). In addition, the Federal 
Communications Commission (2021) offers the Lifeline Program, geared 
toward national broadband expansion. This program advocates for 
affordable internet access for underserved populations and communities, 
making it a solid example of promoting access to telehealth and digital 
tools. These programs could improve the personal autonomy and quality 
of life among PWDs and their caregivers. Social workers can play 
pivotal roles in bridging gaps among tech developers, policymakers, and 
caregiver and PWD communities.

These programs are key examples of promoting the accessibility and 
affordability of assistive technologies for dementia care. Subsidizing 
assistive technology promotes equitable access, improving the quality 
of life for low-income families. By referencing the advantages of 
these initiatives in community-level and policy-level advocacy, social 
workers may play a significant role in advocating for equitable digital 
knowledge, education, and resources in their communities. A key entry 
point for policy change involves integrating assistive technology funding 
into existing healthcare programs, such as Medicaid and home- and 
community-based services, to provide financial support for families 
in need (KFF, 2022). Public-private partnerships between technology 
developers, healthcare institutions, and policymakers can facilitate 
the large-scale distribution of these tools, ensuring cost-effective and 
inclusive access.

Older adults and their caregivers who encounter physical and cognitive 
limitations need user-friendly technology design. When navigating 
these issues, social workers should turn to the model of person-centered 
care (National Association of Social Workers, 2021), which prioritizes 
the dignity and autonomy of individuals, ensuring that care plans are 
personalized and that the individual’s voice remains central to decision-

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making. Technological tools like the MindMate app (2018) are designed 
to offer interactive memory exercises and medication reminders for 
individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. They are also 
individually tailored with input from users and patients, aligning with 
the principles of person-centered care that emphasize the voices of 
populations served.

As technology plays an increasingly pivotal role in dementia care, future 
social work research and product development efforts must prioritize 
collaboration between social workers, product designers and engineers, 
and healthcare providers to create solutions that are not only effective 
in dementia care, but also equitable for marginalized populations. 
Many older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairments, face 
challenges in interacting with complex technology. Research should 
focus on creating intuitive, user-friendly interfaces that can accommodate 
the varying cognitive abilities of individuals with dementia (McCreadie 
& Tinker, 2005), such as designs that incorporate large fonts, clear 
visuals, and voice-activated systems to promote independence while 
minimizing confusion. Additionally, social workers may advocate 
for ongoing usability testing with target populations to ensure that 
the technology remains accessible, effective, and engaging for those 
with dementia, as well as their caregivers, and to ensure a person-
centered care model in product development. Through approaches like 
cross-disciplinary partnerships, social workers can help ensure that 
technological tools not only address the clinical aspects of dementia care 
but also uplift the voices and self-reported needs of individuals with 
dementia and their caregivers.

To address the lack of existing research on ethnic minority engagement 
with technological interventions, future social work research should 
prioritize inclusivity in both study design and implementation. 
Considering that users vary across sociodemographic factors such 
as race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, as well as their unique 
behavioral and cognitive manifestations of dementia (Vollmer 
Dahlke & Ory, 2020), research must account for these complexities 

when evaluating the effectiveness of technological tools. A more 
comprehensive approach would involve engaging not only primary 
users, including individuals with dementia and their caregivers, but also 
secondary stakeholders, such as formal and informal caregivers and 
family members who play a significant role in the adoption and use of 
these technologies (Vollmer Dahlke & Ory, 2020). 
 
CONCLUSION
Social workers can advocate for policies and programs that ensure 
equitable access to these resources, working alongside community 
organizations and multidisciplinary professionals. The role of social 
workers in promoting inclusivity in both the design and distribution of 
dementia care technologies can contribute to a more just and supportive 
healthcare system for all individuals affected by dementia. By providing 
digital education to caregivers and PWDs in the form of digital literacy 
education programs and classes and enhancing the reach of technological 
solutions, these efforts can ensure more equitable care for individuals 
with dementia and other disabilities, benefiting both families and society 
as a whole.

 

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