Table 2.

Characteristics of the Digital Health Technology Interventions Featured in the Scoping Review Study Phase, as Situated in the HAAT Model.

		Digital health technology (Assistive technology)
				Soft Technology
Citation	Activity Targeted activity	System/intervention description	Hard technology	Design elements to maximize performance/engagement	Instructional strategies	Technology partner(s) description and involvement
[28]	Health management, education, social participation	FindMyApps is a self-service Web app containing a database of apps that support self-management, social participation, and meaningful activity engagement.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Personalized settings for app user profile including large font size, minimal text, use of non-animated pictures, Dutch language-only app choices, simplified gesture-control for operation, and more detailed instructions in the help feature; explanation button when help is needed.	One- to 1.5-h training to instruct PwMCI/ADRD and caregivers on how to use the tablet and FindMyApps selection tool; errorless learning strategies were implemented (e.g., stepwise approach, discouraging guessing during task performance, mistake-free repetition) to instruct on basic and complex tasks within the app; training was accompanied by a written instruction manual; caregivers were trained in using errorless learning techniques; demonstration video uploaded to the tablet covering tablet and app functions; phone and email support was made available.	Caregivers were trained on use of the app and how to provide continued support to the PwMCI/ADRD during the intervention. Research staff provided dyads with initial training on the tablet and app and operated an email/phone helpdesk during the trial.
[41]	ADL	Visual mapping software presented on a tablet to assist people with memory difficulties to complete ADL.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Home screen automatically appears upon task completion, showing next scheduled ADL; “Next” and “Previous” navigation buttons; customisable template library of ADL visual maps, which caregivers were trained to modify and personalize.	Visual mapping using keywords/pictures sequencing; caregivers trained to demonstrate and support; weekly tech support available.	Caregivers identified ADL to be addressed and guided participants in carrying out tech-supported ADL. Research staff remained available for troubleshooting.
[42]	Social participation	InspireD, a digital app featuring photographs, videos, and music, facilitates joint reminiscence for PwD and their carers.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Minimalistic design; clear, bold colours segmenting the user interface; combination of typography and iconography to guide navigation and help users understand app functionalities; step-by-step linear approach for cognitively challenging tasks (e.g., uploading photos); non-stigmatizing language.	Use of the app was demonstrated by research staff on a large screen and tablet. Set-up instructions were provided to participants and choices of layout, wording, and usability were agreed upon.	Carer involvement was optional. Carers reported providing explanation and demonstration support, “keeping track” of device, implementing enrolment process, and troubleshooting device and software.
[39]	ADL, IADL	Customisable prompting app for multistep tasking.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Text, recorded voice, picture, and video prompts; researchers manually triggered prompts when participant appeared ready; built-in delay of “Next Step” button so users can process prompt without being distracted by the idea of moving to next steps; appearance, position, and wording of a self-forwarding feature allows user to move at own pace; wording of self-forwarding feature changed based on task (“Next Step” vs. “Next Page”).	Progressive, ongoing support based on participant need, including reiterating instructions, pointing, and physical demonstration; different prompt types were studied; user-led exploratory approach for one individualized task.	Caregiver present during implementation to provide reassurance; supported identification of meaningful tasks prior to intervention. Research staff assisted with task completion as needed.
[47]	ADL, IADL	App-based prompter for everyday tasks.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Audio, picture, and text prompts; carers could set up series of prompts, combining type of prompts used, tailored to PwD’s needs and ADL; “Touch here for next step” button leading to next sequential step; tablet set to only run the prompting software, all other apps were disabled to decrease distraction.	Device prompting and instruction manual provision; phase 1 included tech training demo to user-carer dyad; phase 2 had no demo, just reliance on intuitive design.	Carer-user dyads worked as a team for the full tech implementation process Carer involvement varied (e.g., selection of multi step tasks and step-by-step prompts).
[32]	Social participation	SENSE-GARDEN is a room within a dementia care setting that features digital tech and multisensory stimuli (e.g., aromas, movement-based games, music, large-screen projections) based on an individual’s life story, to engage PwADRD in socially supported, reminiscence activities.	Large-screen projector; aroma dispenser; game controller; stationary bike	Personalized digital media to trigger memory; interactive features to engage multiple senses; large-screen projections that do not require tech manipulation on the PwADRD’s part.	Written instructions along with video tutorials on how to set up and implement SENSE-GARDEN sessions were provided to care staff; an online helpdesk for tech support was available as needed.	via the SENSE-GARDEN tablet app, formal caregivers (professional care staff) worked with family members of the PwADRD to prepare personalized SENSE-GARDEN sessions and facilitated the intervention. Family members collaborated with care staff to prepare SENSE-GARDEN sessions by providing photographs, videos, and other personal life story information about the PwADRD. They were invited to attend sessions with the PwADRD. A technical team was made available through an online helpdesk to receive and respond to participants’ technical issues.
[30]	ADL	SmartPrompt is a smartphone-based reminder app designed to improve daily function in older adults with MCI/mild ADRD by addressing impairments in executive function to facilitate everyday task completion.	Smartphone touchscreen interface; device placed in a carrying case to keep on the user’s person.	Simple interface with large, clear text and buttons; time-based auditory alerts/ prompts to draw attention and trigger task initiation; brief text indicating task goals and instructions; regular reminders and nudges; photo log of task completion to promote task tracking; points awarded for logging completed tasks to address motivation.	Target users underwent a brief 10–15-min hands-on training prior to device use. Research staff followed a detailed script that involved verbalized instructions paired with demonstration and practice of desired tasks. Users received a handout to follow during verbal instructions. The handout included brief text aside images of task steps, highlighted with red arrows/circles to direct attention to key details. Staff reviewed all instructions once and prompted questions and repeated instructions as often as participants needed until understanding was confirmed. Caregivers received a non-interactive, brief training session with verbal instruction and demonstration of device/task setup. They completed a performance quiz to demo understanding.	Caregivers received training in how to programme tasks and reminders into the SmartPrompt app. Research staff trained target users and caregivers in device use and task completion.
[46]	Health management, education	Online patient portal with educational/informational content, patient-provider communication tools, and social support features.	No specific hard technology noted	Welcome Page describing main functionalities of portal using “clear font, calm backgrounds, and contrasting colours”; clicking Welcome page functions leads users further into the website with additional options from which to choose; accessible language, animations, photos, videos, and messaging.	Accessibility and community interaction considered in programme design; testing intuitiveness of design through hands-on tasks (no training apparent).	No specific tech partner involvement noted.
[27]	Education, health management, social participation	CAREGIVERSPRO-MMD is an online social-media style platform to provide informational support (e.g., articles on ADRD services and events) and social support (e.g., shared posts among friends) to PwD and their carers.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Curated information specific to PwD and their carers.	At an in-home visit, PwD-carer dyads were provided 2 touchscreen tablets and instructed on how to use the CAREGIVERSPRO-MMD platform. Optional group training sessions that included platform tutorials and written step-by-step guides were offered 4 times per month as follow-up support.	Carers received their own tablet to access the platform independently. They attended initial training and could attend optional group training sessions. Carers provided PwD assistance in using the platform. Research staff provided initial and follow-up trainings to dyads and groups of users.
[45]	ADL, IADL	AP@LZ is an electronic day planner and organizer app to support memory for daily activity engagement.	Smartphone touchscreen interface	Predetermined list of appointment types provided; all other apps on the phone are blocked; number of functions and options limited to reduce confusion; ringtone volume softened to decrease reluctance to use; pictures to accompany text info; auditory reminders/alarms.	Structured, 3-phased training sessions including errorless learning: 1) Acquisition – participant completes series of tasks given 3× in random order; learning curve calculated based on number of correct responses. 2) Application – role-play to act out real life scenarios when one would use the app; trainer omitted details about events to prompt user to ask questions. 3) Adaptation-user inputted 5–6 real activities into the app.	Research staff led systematic tech training sessions. Caregiver involvement required as part of study to help as needed (e.g., encouraging device carrying, reminding participant to note activities in the app).
[36]	Leisure	Customized accessibility settings for two commercial game apps.	Touchscreen tablet interface; maximized volume and brightness; stable, durable case to protect device and power button from accidental shutdown	Game page ready on screen upon presentation; notifications disabled. Solitaire features: consolidated control methods to only drag-drop; option to alter input method that triggers toolbar and to enhance visual emphasis of autoprompts. Bubble Explode features: simplified layout of opening screens; minimized text feedback that were distractors; auto-prompts for user inactivity; audiovisual redirection prompts after invalid input.	Research staff led a singular, standardized, physical demonstration of gameplay accompanied by verbal instruction.	Research staff preset games on screen and encouraged participants to play independently if support was requested.
[31]	ADL	Visual maps, which included step-by-step guidance with pictures and keywords, displayed on a tablet to assist users in organizing and accomplishing ADL like bathing and dressing.	Tablet touchscreen interface	Pictures and keywords presented in a step-by-step sequence to support ADL performance; individualization through self-selection of visual maps based on preferences and needs; option to include images from one’s own environment to personalize visual maps.	Nondescript training was provided by research staff.		Research staff conducted initial training and development of ADL maps.
[43]	IADL	MEMENTO includes 2 Interconnected e-ink tablets with handwriting recognition housed in a protective notebook cover, a commercial all-day worn smartwatch to relay assistance, and a web interface. The system assists with everyday activities like medication management, scheduling, and shopping. Caregivers have access to a web interface for system setup and monitoring.	Connected e-ink touchscreen tablets; inconspicuous protective notebook cover to avoid stigmatization; smartwatch; stable charger for easy handling	Large font; clear language; symbols and images connected to text-based information; individualization using personal photographs; design modelled on familiar, analogue desktop calendars and notebooks; information and reminders accessible on tablet/smartwatch any time; smartwatch reads lists aloud and calls caregiver if needed; one-button panic option to contact caregiver and relay user’s location.	Guidance and support from a peer contact was provided while participants (and caregivers when available) tried the system’s functionalities at an in-home visit.		When available, caregivers were included in the in-home orientation to the system. Caregivers could monitor system usage and user location through a web interface. Research staff (presumably) installed the system. A peer contact provided system orientation and close-contact support throughout the trial. Biweekly check-in calls/meetings were provided.
[49]	ADL	Smartphone-based intervention for goal-directed ambulation and object use that integrated a walker-affixed smartphone with Bluetooth and light sensors, battery-powered lights, and audio stimulation delivered through headphones.	Smartphone with Bluetooth connected to headphones/earpiece eliminated need to interact with tech directly	Audio, single-step instructions delivered through headphones; praise statements at completion of task steps; repetition of instructions until task completed or timed out; preferred stimulation (songs, hymns, comic sketches) as determined by staff and families, delivered at successful task completion.	.		Research staff set up tech for use during intervention and provided user training and guidance. Families and day-centre staff provided recommendations for preferred content to be used as stimulation.
[33]	ADL, leisure	Mobile device interventions involving: Study 1: customisable app that provides reminders and verbal instructions, delivered on a tablet or smartphone and paired to a Bluetooth earpiece, to aid completion of daily activities. Study 2: shoe-affixed microswitch paired with a notebook computer that delivered stimulating audio (e.g., music) and verbal prompts through an earpiece, to encourage ambulation.	Smartphone/tablet connected to Bluetooth earpiece to eliminate need to carry mobile device; microswitch paired with notebook computer	Study 1: pre-scheduled activities with verbal audio reminders to begin tasks; verbal 1- or 2-step instructions separated by predetermined individualized intervals based on participant and activity type; praise statements during task performance; activities and frequency of verbal reminders adapted based on characteristics of participants. Study 2: audio stimulation and verbal prompts delivered through earpiece, eliminating need to carry a device; brief verbal prompts (1–3 words) delivered after lack of participant response; participant-preferred stimulation (songs, hymns, prayers) that triggered positive reactions, delivered at successful task completion.	Study 1: 3–4 introductory/practice sessions with explanations and guidance from research staff at activity initiation to facilitate accurate task performance. Study 2: five “introductory sessions” led by researcher staff who used physical and verbal guidance to familiarize participants and allow them to experience prompts and performance-contingent stimulation.		Study 1: activities were selected, adapted, and scheduled based on individual participant characteristics (authors did not specify by whom). Study 2: research and day-centre staff collaborated to determine preferred content to be used as stimulation; research staff set up tech for participant use and provided guidance during introductory sessions as needed.
[34]	ADL, health management	A smartphone programme that made use of an audio-based smart-prompting app, radio frequency code-tagged objects, and a “receiving” smartphone and app that responded to participant performance, to encourage upper extremity exercise with everyday objects.	Smartphone; radio frequency-code-tagged objects	Verbal audio prompts/encouragement if no response from participant (10–15 s); preferred stimulation (songs, hymns), delivered at successful task completion.	Four to six practice sessions whereby research staff provided verbal and physical guidance so participants could experience prompts and performance-contingent stimulation.		Families and day-centre staff recommended preferred content to be used as stimulation. Research staff set up tech for participant use and provided guidance during practice sessions as needed.
[50]	ADL, IADL	Customisable app that provides verbal audio reminders and instructions, delivered via a tablet paired to a Bluetooth earpiece, to aid completion of everyday activities.	Tablet paired to a wireless Bluetooth earpiece allowed audio prompts to travel with task, while tablet kept remotely	Pre-scheduled, personally relevant activities with verbal audio reminders to begin tasks; single-step instructions strung together in 2–5 sets at a time (dependent on cognition); programmed interval length between instructions varied based on participant performance.	Three to four practice sessions whereby research staff provided explanation and guidance so participants could become independent in activity performance, as well as error correction when activity could not proceed if left unaddressed.		Research staff (presumably) selected relevant activities and timing for completion; audio recorded verbal instructions; set up tech at the beginning of each session; and provided guidance at initial sessions, error correction as needed, and praise upon activity completion.
[51]	IADL	Smartphone assistive device that facilitates autonomous environmental navigation/orientation.	Smartphone touchscreen interface	Verbal and acoustic direction prompts delivered at decision points (i.e., intersections); redirection provided if PwD made a wrong turn; use of photo-realistic images of environment (vs. abstract maps); arrows to indicate correct direction; audible sound when device provides new info.	Scripted verbal instruction from research staff prior to releasing the device to the PwD.		Research staff provided verbal instructions upon giving participants device, and verbal reassurance/encouragement and redirection as needed.
[35]	Social participation	Tablet app loaded with personal and stock multimedia (e.g., photos, books, music, family movies) to stimulate reminiscence and social interaction.	Tablet touchscreen interface	Media personalized to PwD and their carers.	Research staff provided individualized training (unspecified) to family members on adding content to Memory Keeper and using the app with the PwD. Paper-based instructions were provided in one case.		Significant others were responsible for uploading content to the app and facilitating use with the PwD during visits. Long-term care facility staff were also encouraged to use the device with the PwD.
[26]	Social participation	Smartphone app that employs facial recognition software linked to a smartwatch to assist with identification of people during social encounters.	Smartphone; smartwatch	App automatically recognizes individuals and sends alert via smartwatch vibration, displaying the person’s image, name, and relationship to PwD; high-capacity database to enrol up to 1,000 individuals.	Research staff demonstrated the tech and “trained” participants to use it in a single in-person session; ongoing tech support as needed.		Research staff provided user training and guidance. Target users and caregivers participated as dyads; caregivers reported providing explanation and demonstration support, “keeping track” of device, implementing enrolment process, and troubleshooting device and software. Research staff provided training and tech support as needed.
[40]	IADL, social participation	Computer-aided telephone system with video-displayed images and a microswitch for device operation to enable independent phone call completion.	Computer; telephone with video display; microswitch activates system with minimal hand contact	Switch activation prompts computer to perform tasks such as listing available call partners (1 at a time), calling a partner, or disconnecting a call; 4–5 s delay to allow response time; lack of switch activation prompts system to display next available call partner in sequence; programme provides picture and verbal identification of call partner’s name or relationship to patient; partner’s picture is displayed during conversation.	Five practice sessions to familiarize patients with the system (i.e., how to rely on audiovisual info presented and respond by switch activation); physical and verbal prompts from research staff if patient failed to activate system or make a selection.		Phone call partners consisted of family, friends, and caregivers. Research staff (presumably) set up tech (e.g., identifying call partners, uploading photos).
[29]	Social participation	Mobile app enabling access to locally and globally relevant digitized media including photos, short video clips, and music, to facilitate reminiscent-based conversation.	Touchscreen monitor interface	Sequential presentation of information – theme selection leads to media categories (photos, music, videos), followed by further choices in each category; the programme (not the users) randomly selects topics to promote equality between PwD and conversation partner; media included brief titles and captions to prompt conversational engagement; use of materials linked to shared cultural heritage to trigger durable emotional memories of younger years.	A nondescript “brief orientation to the program” was given to the conversation partner. No training was described for the PwD. “The program is easy to use […], no training is required”.		Dyad structure consisted of PwD paired with care-aide, who functioned as a conversation partner and facilitated engagement with tech (e.g., encouraging interaction with touchscreen, selection of topics).
[44]	ADL, IADL, health management, education	Support Monitoring and Reminder Technology for Mild Dementia (SMART4MD) health app adapted for individuals with mildly impaired cognition to assist with daily task completion through use of reminders, cognitive support tools/tasks, and information sharing.	Touchscreen tablet interface	Built-in cognitive supports like appointment reminders, a calendar, and brain games; user agency to share health and status information with family/friends/carers; personalized health information; simplified home screen with solid background and deletion of non-essential app icons; disabled notifications of other apps; horizontal/vertical lock; deactivated screen lock.	One-time, “thorough and accessible” introduction to the tablet and app, first with the person with MCI and then the carer, in a clinical environment. The app was explained and its use was demonstrated. Dyads practiced tasks after the demonstration. Lingering questions were answered before in-home testing began. A paper-based manual was provided.		Carers were considered “main users” alongside persons with MCI and were to assist when needed. They were trained to use the app at outset. Research staff provided introduction to the equipment and app. Weekly support calls were offered to all persons with MCI-carer dyads and staff could be contacted anytime.
[52]	Social participation	Individual Specific Reminiscence in Dementia (InspireD) tablet app is a home-based, personalized reminiscence programme to facilitate reminiscence and social interaction.	Tablet touchscreen interface	Limited limiting apps on home screen to only those necessary; bright colours; large buttons; icons with brief text.	Nondescript “information technology and reminiscence” training was provided by research staff.		Each participant had at least one partner who was a relative (spouse, child, or grandchild) who would engage in the app with them.
[37]	Social participation	Two web-based apps, CIRCA and CIRCUS, enabling access to curated multimedia (e.g., pictures, videos, music), either generic or personalized, respectively, to facilitate reminiscence and conversation.	Tablet touchscreen interface	Sequential presentation of information – theme selection leads to media categories (photos, music, videos), followed by further choices in each category. CIRCA: the programme (not the users) randomly selects pre-established topics to promote equality between PwD and conversation partner and constrain choice thereby dissuading repetition of same conversations. CIRCUS: includes personalized categories and uploadable multimedia (photos, videos, digitized materials) organized into a digital memory book to activate early memories.	Basic instructions on tablet use and use of CIRCA and CIRCUS were provided to the care-aid. No training was described for the PwD.		Dyad structure consisted of PwD paired with professional carer. The carer functioned as a conversation partner, facilitated engagement with tech, and progressed conversation when necessary. Research staff (presumably) set up tech (e.g., uploading personalized pictures).
[53]	Health management	StandingTall a fall prevention exercise programme consisting of balance training exercises and assessment delivered via tablet, with on-screen text, video demos, and voice-overs.	Tablet touchscreen interface	Audiovisual-based demos of desired tasks; automated progress tracking; in-app exercise scheduling; built-in coaching and automated tailoring of exercises and intensity based on user-inputted self-ratings of exertion; automated time-out and session closure if failure to interact with the app.	A research physiotherapist introduced the programme to the participant-caregiver dyad at a home-visit. App features “were explained and demonstrated”. Phone support and scheduled and as-needed home visits were made available to address issues with the made available to address issues with the programme. Instructions to complete exercises included onscreen text, video guides/demos, and voice-over.		Caregivers participated in the system orientation and assisted participants with app usage during exercise sessions, information entry (e.g., perceived exertion ratings), and safety monitoring. A research physiotherapist introduced the programme and equipment to the dyads and provided in-person and phone-based support.
[48]	IADL	Use of smartphones + smartwatches loaded with an activity and location monitoring app, a calendar app with appointment reminders, and a self-report app to provide personalized support of daily activities and objective monitoring of goal-based activity behaviours.	Smartphone touchscreen interface; smartwatch	Self-report app prompts user to input info; standard home screen displaying time, appointments, and step count can be individualized (e.g., add a picture dialling feature); data collection app ran in background without needing user engagement to track activity and location data; Google Calendar was one app selected for its simplicity and provided to all.	Devices were introduced and personalized at a tech orientation visit for the participant and caregiver. Participants were shown how to use the apps. Instructions were repeated at a 1-week follow-up visit. Tech support was available via phone and at visits as needed. An illustrated manual was provided.		Live-in caregiver involved in all aspects of tech use (e.g., training, implementation, data reporting). Research staff (trained in psychology) collaborated with participants to develop individualized goals, and provided tech support as necessary.
[25]	ADL, IADL, social participation	Two videophone-based systems: (1) remote reminiscence conversation system to promote conversational engagement and psychological wellness and (2) schedule prompter system to assist PwD to perform household tasks.	Touchscreen PC interface with web camera	PC remotely booted by conversation partner; auto-launch of software when PC turned on. Remote Reminiscence Conversation System: personal photos scanned onto PC and used by partner during conversation. Schedule Prompter System: audiovisuals (i.e., “beautiful pictures and soothing/nostalgic music”) to draw users’ attention to PC; short 5-min videos to motivate (i.e., old music videos, motor exercise video, photo videos of participant) followed by scheduler video to cue household task completion (e.g., take medication, prep meal)	No instruction for participants or caregivers was reported.		Research staff (systems engineer) set up and maintained tech in partner’s and participant’s home for study length. Caregiver ensured tech stayed powered on for study length and observed and reported on participant behaviours. Remote Reminiscence Conversation System: research volunteer functioned as conversation partner and remotely activated tech; caregiver supplied photos (presumably); caregiver + partner + participant collectively scheduled calls. Schedule Prompter System: caregiver + memory clinic therapist + participant selected and scheduled tasks. Therapist or caregiver was videoed explaining tasks.

Notes: AD: Alzheimer’s disease; ADL: activity/activities of daily living; ADRD: Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia; app: application; demo(s)=demonstration(s); IADL: instrumental activity/activities of daily living; MCI: mild cognitive impairment; PC: personal computer; PwMCI/ADRD: person(s) with dementia; QoL: quality of life; tech: technology.