Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How digital tech affects emotions and care in dementia patients
By Persson M et al.·2026·Department of Education and Sociology·View original on Europe PMC →
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Original publication title: Digital technology, emotions, and social relationships in dementia care: A narrative review.
Plain-English summary
This review looks at how different digital technologies, like robots and tablets, affect the relationships between caregivers and people with dementia. Researchers examined 15 studies published over the last decade and found that emotions play a big role in these interactions. They identified three main emotional areas: comfort versus discomfort during conversations, joy versus anger during play, and feelings of safety versus vulnerability based on how well caregivers protect residents. The study highlights that caregivers need support in understanding these emotional aspects to use technology effectively, which can improve the well-being of residents and strengthen their social connections. Overall, the findings suggest that when used thoughtfully, digital tools can positively influence emotional experiences in dementia care.
Abstract
The aim of this review is to explore how the (dis)affordances of digital technologies-such as robots, game consoles, tablet computers, and virtual environments-shape the quality of the social relationships between care workers and residents in dementia care. Using a narrative review methodology, we analyzed 15 peer-reviewed articles published between 2012 and 2023 through thematic analysis. The findings are organized around three contrasting emotional dimensions: comfort-discomfort, joy-anger, and safety-vulnerability. Comfort and discomfort were primarily linked to everyday conversations, joy and anger to experiences of play and entertainment, and safety and vulnerability to how effectively care workers safeguarded residents' sense of security. These results demonstrate that emotional expressions are not only outcomes of interpersonal interaction but are also mediated by technological affordances. Supporting care workers in recognizing and responding to these emotional dynamics is therefore crucial for ensuring that digital technologies enhance residents' well-being and help sustain secure social bonds in dementia care.
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Search related cases →Original publication on Europe PMC: https://europepmc.org/article/MED/41585295