A home-based individualized information communication technology training program for older adults: a demonstration of effectiveness and value

Abstract

Building capacity of older adults to utilize the multifaceted potential of ICT is critical in addressing declines in health, impending disabilities, and social isolation. Implications for Rehabilitation A one-on-one home-based individualized information communication technology (ICT) training program for older adults could result in a progressive increase in the breadth of online activities carried out by them. Specifically, the increase in their usage of ICT could be expected in leisure-based online activities. Individualized training programs designed based on needs, priorities, and learning style of older adults could have a positive impact on their technological perspectives and intrinsic motivation to adopt ICT.

Feasibility study of an attention training application for older adults

“…In particular, technologies that can assist with maintenance of independence, physical and mental abilities are of interest, but the frustration associated with attempts to use technology as well as perceptions of a lack of assistance may be limiting factors (Heinz et al, 2013). Research has demonstrated the ability for older adults to successfully learn to use mobile technology, specifically tablet devices, with adequate training and support (Arthanat et al, 2014). Mobile technology has been utilised for health assessment (Bielli et al, 2004), health tracking (O'Brien et al, 2015) and behavioural intervention implementation (Kurti et al, 2015) among older adults with positive feedback from users.…”

Instructing Students How to Use Evidence-based Technology Interventions with Older Adults

“…Therapists should assess older adults' priorities for using technology along with the wants and needs of the client to help individualize technological educational programs (Arthanat et al, 2016;Edgar et al, 2017). To identify client priorities, an excellent tool to use is the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM).…”

“…Technology is transforming the way occupational therapists (OTs) deliver healthcare to their clients, and entry-level OT students must be competent in using technology across the lifespan. Rapidly advancing technology has created a significant technology literacy lag in older adults, and OTs should address this lag by providing educational opportunities for older adults to use technology (Arthanat, Vroman, & Lysack, 2016). Entry-level OT faculty must prioritize technology education in instructional content related to older adults to help prepare students to implement technology into clinical practice (Arthanat et al, 2016).…”

“…Rapidly advancing technology has created a significant technology literacy lag in older adults, and OTs should address this lag by providing educational opportunities for older adults to use technology (Arthanat, Vroman, & Lysack, 2016). Entry-level OT faculty must prioritize technology education in instructional content related to older adults to help prepare students to implement technology into clinical practice (Arthanat et al, 2016). Recent evidence reports the benefits of using technology with the older adult population (Arthanat et al, 2016;Choi, 2011;Vroman, Arthanat, & Lysack, 2015;Wallace, Graham, & Saraceno, 2013), but there is limited guidance on how to integrate technological interventions for older adults into OT curriculum.…”

“…Entry-level OT faculty must prioritize technology education in instructional content related to older adults to help prepare students to implement technology into clinical practice (Arthanat et al, 2016). Recent evidence reports the benefits of using technology with the older adult population (Arthanat et al, 2016;Choi, 2011;Vroman, Arthanat, & Lysack, 2015;Wallace, Graham, & Saraceno, 2013), but there is limited guidance on how to integrate technological interventions for older adults into OT curriculum. The purpose of this paper is to provide OT educators with recommendations for teaching entry-level students to use evidence-based technology with older adults.…”