Germany-wide cross-sectional survey to determine the willingness to pay for a newly developed multi-component product around social care for people with dementia in care facilities using the van Westendorp method

Dementia affects individuals with various symptoms such as memory loss, word-finding difficulties and inhibited thought processes. The condition requires an environment adapted to the abilities and deficits of those affected. This study focuses on the use of multisensory tools in German nursing homes to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia, with an emphasis of assessing willingness to pay. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among German long-term care facilities using an online questionnaire, to assess willingness to pay for a newly developed multisensory product - described as the treasure box (“Schatzkästchen”). The study identified an acceptable price range for the treasure box of 30 EUR and 70 EUR. The survey indicates a need for analogue, multisensory products that can be used to activate and relax individuals with dementia. The findings emphasise the importance of addressing tactile and visual senses and suggest that care must be taken when determining the price of such products, considering the limited payment willingness of German nursing homes.