Development of the web-based PRIDE self management app

Abstract

Background: Self-management, autonomy and quality of life are key constructs in enabling people to live well with dementia. This population often become isolated following diagnosis, but it is important for them to feel encouraged to maintain their daily activities and stay socially active. PRIDE promotes social inclusion and greater dementia self-management via an interactive handbook. Objective(s): To outline the development of the paper-based PRIDE manual into a web-based platform. Method(s): There were two overarching stages to creating the web-based version of PRIDE. The first was Preliminary Development which encompassed; (1) tendering, (2) preliminary development work, (3) consultations, (4) beta version of the website, (5) user testing/consultation on beta version, and (6) production of final web-based prototype. The second stage was Development of the Final PRIDE-app, which included two sprints and further user-testing. Result(s): Through a lengthy development process, modifications were made to app areas such as the login process, content layout and aesthetical appearance. Feedback from the target population was incorporated throughout the process to achieve a dementia-friendly product. The finished PRIDE-app has defined areas for reading up on dementia-related topics, creating activity plans, and logging these completed activities. Through the work discussed, the PRIDE-app has evolved from its initial prototype into a more dementia-friendly and usable program that is of a standard for wider testing.