Using Tracking Device on Patients with Dementia: A Systematic Review

An integrative assessment of tracking systems in long-term care facilities for dementia patients. Background: Long-term care facilities are increasingly using tracking systems. Their usage is debatable, though. The aim of this research is to investigate the effects of using tracking technologies to keep an eye on dementia patients in institutional settings on both the residents and the staff. Methods: In addition to a hand search, a systematic review of the literature was done in the PubMed, CINAHL, Livivo, and ScienceDirect databases. From 2013 onward, papers, reviews, and study reports in both German and English were included. Results: Eight references in all were used for the analysis. The findings suggest that tracking systems are used in nursing in an ambivalent manner. The domains of trust and mistrust, in addition to autonomy and security, present difficulties for nurses. Residents will now have more options for independence and mobility, but they will also be under more strain because of ongoing observation. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that the present discussion surrounding the use of monitoring tools for dementia patients in facilities that provide long-term care focuses mostly on the financial elements, while paying less attention to issues related to person-centered care, ethical dilemmas, or the experiences of those affected. The use of technology alters the job procedures and duties of professional caregivers, which is a key discovery.