Social participation in dementia: Experiences and the role of technology through an occupational lens

Social participation is a relevant determinant of successful ageing and living well with dementia. It is associated with various benefits, such as improved health, life satisfaction, and a strengthened sense of autonomy and identity. However, people with dementia frequently experience a decline in social participation and express unmet social needs, highlighting the urgent need for interventions addressing social participation. Due to the rapid technological developments in recent years, the use of technology has gained significant attention in promoting social participation. Although it holds potential, the existing body of literature is scarce. Therefore, this thesis aims to gain a better understanding of the experience of social participation in dementia and to explore the potential role that technology can play therein.