The Acceptability of Digital Technology and Tele-Exercise in the Age of COVID-19: Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background With the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth has been increasingly used to offset the negative outcomes of social isolation and functional decline in older adults. Crucial to the success of telehealth is end user adoption. Objective This study aims to investigate perception and acceptability of digital technology among Asian older adults. Methods The Healthy Ageing Promotion Program for You (HAPPY) dual-task exercise was conducted virtually to participants aged ≥60 years. Questionnaires were administered digitally and collected data on demographics, perceptions of digital technology and evaluation of HAPPY, the 6-item Lubben Social Network Scale, intrinsic capacity using the Integrated Care for Older People tool, and a functional screening with the FRAIL scale and five chair rises. Descriptive analysis was used. Results A total of 42 participants were digitally interviewed. The mean age was 69.1 (4.7) years. Hearing, vision, and 3-item recall difficulty were present in 14% (n=6), 12% (n=5), and 24% (n=10) of participants, respectively. Of the participants, 29% (n=12) had possible sarcopenia and 14% (n=6) were prefrail. Around 24% (n=10) were at risk of social isolation. Most of the participants (n=38, 91%) agreed that technology is good, and 79% (n=33) agreed that technology would allow them to be independent for longer. Over three-quarters of participants (n=33, 79%) agreed that they have the necessary knowledge, and 91% (n=38) had technological assistance available. However, 57% (n=24) were still apprehensive about using technology. Despite 71% (n=30) of older adults owning their devices, 36% (n=15) felt finances were limiting. Through digital HAPPY, 45% (n=19) of participants reported feeling stronger, 48% (n=20) had improved spirits, and 40% (n=17) and 38% (n=16) had improved mood and memory, respectively. Conclusions The majority of older adults in this study believed in digital technology and had the necessary knowledge and help, but almost half still felt apprehensive and had financial barriers to adopting technology. A digitally administered exercise program especially in a group setting is a feasible option to enhance intrinsic capacity in older adults. However, more work is needed in elucidating sources of apprehension and financial barriers to adopting technology.

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Digital Health Technologies Usage among Older Adults for Healthy Ageing during COVID-19: A Review

“…In addition, according to the study by [29] proves that tele-exercise can potentially be utilised to prevent and delay functional decline and loneliness in older adults and they are more than ready to use digital technology. The following Figure I depicted older adult participant's responses towards tele-exercise program known as HAPPY in the study.…”

Smart Devices for Health and Wellness Applied to Tele-Exercise: An Overview of New Trends and Technologies Such as IoT and AI

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