What is required for digital care and support technologies to be experienced as good care by community-dwelling older adults? A qualitative study.

Abstract

Background: Digital care and support technologies may support independent and healthy aging, and are promoted as means to reduce healthcare costs and improve access. Yet realizing this potential in practice remains challenging, particularly given the variability in how older persons experience these technologies. Therefore, to better understand their perceived value and, indirectly, support efficient and equitable elderly care, we explored what is required for such technologies to be experienced as good care by community-dwelling older persons.

Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 27 community-dwelling older persons about their experiences with digital care and support technologies and analyzed the data thematically.

Results: Respondents described technologies as contributing to good care when they aligned with (1) their needs and habits, (2) their capabilities, and (3) their values. When older persons had an active role in choosing technologies, these were often experienced as supporting aging-in-place and enhancing accessibility, safety and autonomy. In contrast, technologies introduced by caregivers were frequently perceived as unnecessary and therefore often not used. Some respondents experienced technologies as hindering good care due to reduced human contact, while misalignment with users' capabilities hampered access.

Conclusions: Addressing the three proposed areas of alignment can help healthcare providers and welfare organizations implement technologies that contribute to experienced good care for older persons, which in turn can support the efficient and equitable delivery of care. Our findings underscore the need for analogue alternatives and operational support to prevent exclusion of the most vulnerable and ensure a minimum standard of accessibility.