Bridging the Communication Gap Between People With Cognitive Impairments and Their Caregivers Using mHealth Apps: User-Centered Design and Evaluation Study With People With 22q11 Deletion Syndrome.

In this research, the need for apps that help bridge the communication gap between a person with cognitive impairment and their caregiver is confirmed. All participating families express their gratitude and mention the added value for other families. Therefore, it is highly encouraged for clinics and institutions to take action and develop an app to be used in practice. Furthermore, considerations when developing for people with 22q11 DS, or more broadly, people with cognitive impairments, are proposed. First, one should keep design principles in mind to overcome usage barriers. Next, recognition is a key concept when stimulating conversations through mobile apps. Third, information should be provided by a trusted source, and more than just clinical information can be considered valuable. Finally, having the possibility of using a digital tool that can be personalized brings continual added value.