Developing Ethical Web- and Mobile-Based Technologies for Dementia

Abstract

The availability of web- and mobile-based technologies (WMBTs) for dementia prevention and care has grown exponentially over the last decade. These include computer-based resources such as online self-diagnostic tools, mobile-based resources such as applications (“apps”) that track lifestyle metrics or provide interactive platforms for cognitive engagement, and cross-platform resources such as websites providing health information. Despite their potential benefits, key ethical challenges have been identified in WMBTs for dementia both at the individual and societal levels, including issues of privacy, quality, and accessibility. This chapter explores the ethical challenges surrounding the use of WMBTs for dementia and highlights recent evidence on the positive and negative impacts of WMBT solutions. The chapter reviews development and design recommendations that have been put forward to maximize the benefits and minimize the harms of using WMBTs for dementia. It closes by looking to the future and proposing development considerations for future WMBT development.