Factors influencing community‐dwelling older adults’ readiness to adopt smart home technology: A qualitative exploratory study
Gordana Dermody, Roschelle Fritz, Courtney Glass, Melissa Dunham, Lisa Whitehead
Abstract
AIMS: Ageing-in-place for older people could be more feasible with the support of smart home technology. Ageing in-place may maximize the independence of older adults and enhance their well-being and quality of life, while decreasing the financial burden of residential care costs, and addressing workforce shortages. However, the uptake of smart home technology is very low among older adults. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to explore factors influencing community-dwelling older adults' readiness to adopt smart home technology. DESIGN: A qualitative exploratory study design was utilized. METHODS: Descriptive data were collected between 2019 and 2020 to provide context of sample characteristics for community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years. Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews and focus groups, to generate an understanding of older adult's perspectives. Thematic analysis of interviews and focus group transcripts was completed. The Elderadopt model was the conceptual framework used in the analysis of the findings. RESULTS: Several factors influenced community-dwelling older adults' (N = 19) readiness to adopt smart home technology. Five qualitative themes were identified: knowledge, health and safety, independence, security and cost. CONCLUSION: Community-dwelling older adults were open to adopting smart home technology to support independence despite some concerns about security and loss of privacy. Opportunities to share information about smart home technology need to be increased to promote awareness and discussion. IMPACT: Wider adoption of smart home technology globally into the model of aged care can have positive impacts on caregiver burden, clinical workforce, health care utilization and health care economics. Nurses, as the main providers of healthcare in this sector need to be knowledgeable about the options available and be able to provide information and respond to questions know about ageing-in-place technologies to best support older adults and their families.