Perfil dos aplicativos para auxílio na doença de Alzheimer disponíveis para Download

Abstract

Introduction: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most frequent type of dementia in the elderly. The objective is to describe the profile of the applications available for DA and to evaluate the preference of users among the profiles. Methods: A search was performed on the Google Play Store ™ platform, using the term "Alzheimer", for applications directed to patients with AD, caregivers or health professionals. The variables downloads and evaluations were analyzed. Chi-square tests were applied in order to verify the independence between the data. A qualitative analysis of the main mechanisms highlighted in applications was also carried out. Results: In relation to the general population of applications, those that contain memory exercises are significantly more representative in number of downloads, when compared to those that deal with prevention. There was no statistical difference between the profiles in evaluations. The main approaches to patient-oriented applications were memory exercises, those for caregivers, informational tools, and those for health professionals, assistive mechanisms in clinical practice. Conclusion: Applications to aid in AD are very popular, presenting different approaches. Further studies are needed to analyze the technical capacity and accessibility of patients with AD and caregivers to use the available applications.