ABSTRACT
AIM: Mate wareware (dementia) presents a significant social and economic burden for Maori in Aotearoa New Zealand. Previous literature has highlighted the need to improve health literacy for Maori regarding the causes and management of mate wareware, yet there is a lack of Maori-centred educational resources. It was determined that a mobile phone application (app) could meet this need and that early consultation with Maori was required to ensure the digital solution would be culturally safe and relevant. METHOD: This study explored the perspectives of kaumatua (Maori elders) regarding how to cater the mate wareware mobile app to Maori. Through a qualitative approach based on Kaupapa Maori principles, two focus groups were held with 15 kaumatua. Focus group data were thematically analysed. RESULTS: The analysis identified four themes related to the content of the proposed app and its design features. "Information about mate wareware" and "Caregiver support" were prominent themes that kaumatua prioritised for inclusion in the proposed app. To ensure uptake, kaumatua emphasised that the "Access" and "Appeal" of the proposed app should be considered. CONCLUSION: The findings have informed the design of the Mate Wareware app and should be considered when developing other digital health interventions for Maori.