Technology Acceptance of a Mobile Application to Support Family Caregivers in a Long-Term Care Facility

Abstract

Background: Family caregivers are unpaid individuals who provide care to people with chronic conditions or disabilities. Family caregivers generally do not have formal care-related training. However, they are an essential source of care. Mobile technologies can benefit family caregivers by strengthening communication with care staff and supporting the monitoring of care recipients. Objective: We conducted a mixed-method study to evaluate the acceptance and usability of mobile technology called the Smart Care System. Methods: Using convenience sampling, we recruited 27 family caregivers to evaluate the mobile Smart Care System. In the quantitative phase, we administered initial and exit questionnaires based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model. In the qualitative phase, we conducted focus groups to explore family caregivers’ perspectives and opinions on the usability of the mobile Smart Care System. With the quantitative data, we employed univariate, bivariate, and partial least squares analyses, and we used content analysis with the qualitative data. Results: We observed a high level of comfort using digital technologies among participants. On average, participants were caregivers for an average of 6.08 years (SD = 6.63), and their mean age was 56.65 years (SD = 11.62). We observed a high level of technology acceptance among family caregivers (7.69, SD = 2.11). Behavioral intention (β = 0.509, p-value = 0.004) and facilitating conditions (β = 0.310, p-value = 0.049) were statistically significant and related to usage behavior. In terms of qualitative results, participants reported that the mobile application supported care coordination and communication with staff and provided peace of mind to family caregivers. Conclusion: The technology showed a high technology acceptance and intention to use among family caregivers in a long-term care setting. Facilitating conditions influenced acceptance. Therefore, it would be important to identify and optimize these conditions to ensure technology uptake.