Assistive technologies for social health in dementia show limited evidence of effectiveness

Social health is increasingly recognized as a key dimension of wellbeing in dementia, yet it remains unclear to what extent available assistive technologies are personalisable, usable, and effective in addressing related unmet needs. This umbrella review aimed to (1) identify how many and which technologies are personalisable, usable and effective in supporting social health in dementia, and (2) synthesize recommendations from the current literature on how to improve equitable implementation. An explorative review of reviews was conducted, including 28 reviews published between 2007 and 2024. The INDUCT/DISTINCT Best Practice Guidance for Human Interaction with Technology in Dementia was also included. Technologies and recommendations were analyzed using a combined frequency-based and thematic approach and categorized according to the three social health domains (fulfilling potential and obligations; managing life with some degree of independence; participation in social activities) and across micro-, meso-, and macrolevels. Of all technologies discussed, 48% were reported as personalisable and 59% as usable. However, only 23% of personalisable technologies demonstrated effectiveness in at least one randomized controlled trial. Most evidence related to the domain of managing life with some degree of independence, while fewer technologies showed demonstrated effectiveness for fulfilling potential or enhancing social participation. Recommendations primarily addressed implementation strategies, equity considerations, and stakeholder collaboration. Future research priorities included the development of needs-based, personalisable, and diversity-sensitive technologies, improved methodological rigor, and supportive policy and funding structures. While half of the technologies are described as adaptable to user needs, preferences or abilities and more than half as usable, robust evidence for their effectiveness in promoting social health remains limited. Clearer operationalisation of personalisation, stronger evaluation designs and improved implementation strategies are needed to ensure that people with dementia can equitably access technologies that promote their social health.