Promoting Information Communication Technology Adoption and Acceptance for Aging-in-Place: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The prevailing digital divide along with barriers to information communication technology (ICT) adoption among older adults is well elucidated. To contribute evidence on ICT education, a 2-year randomized controlled trial verified the long-term effect of a novel individualized ICT training program for older adults in demographic cohorts who are known to underutilize ICT ( n = 42 in the training and n = 43 in a control group). Mixed-model repeated measures analysis of data was conducted from baseline and 6-month intervals ( df = 4, 1) post training. Older adults in the training group engaged in a wide range of leisure ( p = .03), health management ( p = .006), and instrumental activities of daily living ( p = .02) significantly more than those in the control group. They also reported significantly enhanced technology acceptance and sustained sense of independence in key ICT-based activities. The study supports the implementation of one-on-one ICT training programs to promote access and utilization of digital resources for aging-in-place.

Designing ICTs for Users with Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Usability Study

“…In which order should I do the required steps?). As a consequence of the previous and the lack of ICT experience, elderly users show better performance on systems with linear navigation [ 32 , 46 , 47 ]. Another aspect that adds up to the complexity of usability in the elderly lies in the fact that the characteristics of elderly users are not static and vary over time because there are changes due to age-related decline [ 48 ].…”

Limited Technology Access Among Residents of Affordable Senior Housing During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…The dissemination of free or low-cost internet access is likely necessary but not sufficient to improve technology access; provision of devices with associated training and support are required to overcome technology literacy barriers and facilitate interaction with health care providers and food delivery. A number of small-scale studies including the Tech Allies community partnership in San Francisco, a randomized trial of the Individualized Community and Home-Based Access to Technology Training program in New Hampshire, and the multi-site PRISM Trial have demonstrated benefits from providing technology training and devices in older populations and could serve as models for translation to the affordable housing setting (Arthanat, 2021; Fields et al, 2021; Mitzner et al, 2019). The Lighthouse for Older Adults pilot initiative in California, for example, incorporates the provision of internet access, devices, and training and specifically targets older adults in affordable housing communities (Stann, 2020).…”

Stimulating Research to Enhance Aging in Place

“…Although these trends are encouraging and offer opportunities to support aging in place, additional research is necessary to apply what has been learned to date (Ho, 2020). To do that, commercial products that could augment the health and wellness of older individuals and extend care into the home (e.g., safe home technologies) are increasingly available (Arthanat, 2021), yet the widespread use of such technology remains limited (Liu et al, 2016). Older adult acceptance of technology is influenced by perceived benefits, need, cost, social influence, and the desire to age in place (Peek et al, 2014).…”