Characterizing the attitudes, proficiency, and usage patterns for daily technology among older adults with a cognitive impairment.

Abstract

Purpose: Older adults with a cognitive impairment may be challenged by the demands associated with technology systems used to support everyday activities. We investigated technology attitudes, proficiency, and usage across the domains of health, social, transportation, leisure, and domestic activities among older adults with mild cognitive impairment, traumatic brain injury, and post-stroke cognitive impairment. We examined whether age, gender, health, cognition, or technology attitudes (comfort, interest, efficacy) predicted technology proficiency and usage patterns. All variables were measured with validated questionnaires.

Materials and methods: Participants (N = 163, age range 60-93) were part of the Everyday Needs Assessment for Cognitive Tasks (ENACT) study.

Results: The participants were largely proficient in using technologies and had generally positive attitudes toward technology. Usage patterns varied across domains, with participants most engaged in technology uses to support social and domestic activities, followed by health activities. Technology was used least frequently to support transportation and leisure activities. Findings highlighted the complex interplay of demographic factors, cognition, and attitudes towards technologies in shaping older adults with cognitive impairments' adoption and use of technology across the various domains. Older age was associated with lower technology use, whereas positive attitudes towards technology (interest, comfort, and efficacy) were associated with higher use. Gender differences were evident in social, domestic, and leisure technology domains.

Conclusion: These findings underscore that older adults with a cognitive impairment can use and are receptive towards technology. The findings provide valuable insights for tailoring interventions to meet the needs and preferences of older adults with a cognitive impairment.