A Novel Interactive Voice Response (IVR) System for Dementia Screening, Education, and Referral: One-Year Summary

Abstract

This article summarizes the data collected from an interactive voice response (IVR) system for dementia screening, education, and referral during its first year of use. After its development and pilot testing, the system was made available to the public via a toll-free number and advertised in targeted, rural areas in the state of Wisconsin. After 1 year of availability, the data gathered by the system suggests that the majority of the callers remained in the system long enough to, at minimum, listen to educational information. The system received calls from both those concerned about themselves and those concerned about another person. The screening portions of the system received significant use, and most individuals receiving positive screens continued to explore the interactive voice response system, suggesting they sought additional information. Overall, the 1-year results support the need for accessible and anonymous resources for individuals concerned about dementia.

Diagnosis of cognitive decline and dementia in rural areas — A scoping review

“…A pilot test assessed the use and acceptance of an interactive voice response (IVR) system for dementia screening, education, and referral during the first year. Different modules containing information about the disease, further care, feedback, and help were provided.…”

“…However, the studies also indicate that telephone screening is only useful as additional tool to assess the cognitive status. Mundt et al conclude that the number of callers indicate that the IVR system can help to reduce barriers for people in need of information about AD . Another study of Mundt et al shows that the Trend‐AD discriminates cognitive function among cognitive normal, MCI, and mild dementia.…”

“…Mundt et al conclude that the number of callers indicate that the IVR system can help to reduce barriers for people in need of information about AD. 47 Another study of Mundt et al shows that the Trend-AD discriminates cognitive function among cognitive normal, MCI, and mild dementia. The reliability and validity of the Trend-SDQ ratings (provided by the caregiver) were very good and can be used as a proxy measure for monitoring cognitive functioning of more severely demented patients.…”

“…Three studies in this category were conducted in the USA, 44,46,47 one study has been conducted in Norway 45 (see Table 4).…”

“…Patients and the GPs had to rate the satisfaction with the service. Besides, GPs living in the northernmost counties were asked to rate the acceptance of a potential free telephone-based screening service.A pilot test47 assessed the use and acceptance of an interactive voice response (IVR) system for dementia screening, education, and referral during the first year. Different modules containing information about the disease, further care, feedback, and help were provided.…”