Percorrer por autor "Lopes, Daniel S"
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- Co-designing companions in virtual natural environments for enhanced well-being: insights from dementia informal caregiversPublication . Peres, Beatriz; Lopes, Daniel S; Jorge, Joaquim; Campos, Pedro F.; Rodrigues Jardim Rino Peres, Beatriz; Pereira Campos, Pedro Filipe; Campos, PedroInformal caregivers of family members with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) perform an often difficult and emo tionally demanding task. The combination of Virtual Natural Envi ronments (VNEs) and some form of social interaction could help meet some caregiver needs but remains unexplored. In this study, we investigate how ADRD informal caregivers envision compan ionship in the context of VR nature. Through co-design sessions with 15 ADRD informal caregivers, the thematic analysis identified four main themes: companionship needs, physical presence, vir tual presence, and characteristics and behaviors. Diverse types of companions were suggested, with a preference for empathetic, cred ible, and authentic companionship. Design opportunities include integrating physical and virtual companionship within VNEs. This research highlights the importance of designing companions that help caregivers feel understood. Considering informal caregivers’ perspectives is integral to developing interventions that effectively address their emotional and social well-being.