A Technology-Based Intervention to Support Older Adults in Living Independently: Protocol for a Cross-National Feasibility Pilot

Abstract

Innovative technologies can support older adults with or without disabilities, allowing them to live independently in their environment whilst monitoring their health and safety conditions and thereby reducing the significant burden on caregivers, whether family or professional. This paper discusses the design of a study protocol to evaluate the acceptance, usability, and efficiency of the SAVE system, a custom-developed information technology-based elderly care system. The study will involve older adults (aged 65 or older), professional and lay caregivers, and care service decision-makers representing all types of users in a care service scenario. The SAVE environmental sensors, smartwatches, smartphones, and Web service application will be evaluated in people’s homes situated in Romania, Italy, and Hungary with a total of 165 users of the three types (cares, elderly, and admin). The study design follows the mixed method approach, using standardized tests and questionnaires with open-ended questions and logging all the data for evaluation. The trial is registered to the platform ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT05626556. This protocol not only guides the participating countries but can be a feasibility protocol suitable for evaluating the usability and quality of similar systems.

Digital immigrants: Leveraging the technology acceptance model to increase digital literacy in older adults

“…Most (88%) of adults surveyed consider it essential to stay in their homes as they age, with 62% rating it as very important and 26% as somewhat necessary (Malani et al, 2022). Aging in place often requires home modifications and digital technologies are integral to supporting the safety and well-being of older adults (Stara et al, 2022).…”

“…Digital technologies supporting independent living include wearable devices for fall protection, texting, phone calls, and heart rate and activity level monitoring. Technology‐enhanced in‐home technologies can monitor home security and identify open doors, water leaks, and other emergencies (Stara et al., 2022). Adapting the home environment using digital technologies for safety and in‐home monitoring increases opportunities for older adults to live independently and age in place.…”

“…However, training is needed for users to accept and safely implement the digital tools designed for independent living. Digital literacy for older adults is paramount to increasing opportunities for aging in place, and interventions targeted toward this population can further reduce the digital divide, opening opportunities for independent living and active participation within their homes and community (Stara et al., 2022).…”

“…The significance of technology training in reducing this digital gap is consistently supported by research, showcasing its role in empowering older adults to live independently and enhance their connections to family, friends, healthcare, and community services (Gleason & Suen, 2022; Sen et al., 2022; Stara et al., 2022; Wu et al., 2015). Tailored digital literacy programs empower older adults to navigate technology, effectively bridging the generational gap in technology adoption.…”

Age Unplugged: A Brief Narrative Review on the Intersection of Digital Tools, Sedentary and Physical Activity Behaviors in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

“…Motioncapture technologies such as Wii and Kinect offer multiple opportunities for exercise, while web-based interventions and platforms such as Zoom (version 6.0.3) or Skype (version 8) offer significant advances in promoting health and well-being in older adults [74]. These technological solutions not only offer viable alternatives to traditional exercise methods but have also been shown to be effective in maintaining high levels of engagement among participants, as evidenced by minimal dropout rates and increased participation in activity programs [73,75,76]. In addition, the adaptability and straightforward access to tablets and smartphones allows older people to personalize their exercise routines effectively.…”