Noam Tractinsky

The aim of our study is to determine the efficacy of a personalized multimedia system developed for use by patients and their caregivers in the treatment of mild Alzheimer's disease (AD). We have designed and developed a prototypical system and conducted a pilot study in order to examine the feasibility of using a personalized reminiscence system and evaluated its acceptability by patients and caregivers in Israel [1]. Results from the pilot study indicate high satisfaction levels from those using the system as well as a strong tendency towards repeated use. There was also a clear preference for personal rather than general material when both were available. Based on these initial positive results with the prototypical system we are now in the process of designing a large scale study to further evaluate this system. The research plan described here involves a collaborative effort involving two projects utilizing behavioral interventions based on computerized systems for patients with AD (personalized reminiscence therapy and cognitive training). The reminiscence project which is the focus of this paper has two objectives: (1) Developing a personalized reminiscence system, which will enable independent use and administration for both patients and caregivers. (2) Evaluating the contribution of the system to the cognitive functioning and well-being of AD patients and its effects on family members and caregivers.