Background: Nowadays, sarcopenia is widely affecting numerous people in the world, which directly leads to devastating clinical outcomes like catastrophic falls, functional disability in mobility, and increased mortality. Ultrasound (US) plays an important role in sarcopenia assessment for quantitatively and qualitatively detecting muscle performance by muscle thickness (MT) and cross-sectional area (CSA). However, it has been hindered by operator dependency and a lack of standardization, making manual measurements impractical for large-scale screening. Research Aims Our study addresses this clinical bottleneck by adopting image segmentation models to enable deep-learning-based automated ultrasound system that standardizes the assessment of multiple muscle groups across the body. Methods: We trained the deep learning models (U-Net and nnU-Net) for segmenting five key muscle groups (biceps, triceps, rectus abdominis (RA), rectus femoris(RF), and peroneal longus and brevis (PLPB) from US images acquired from 94 adult participants (young (n=22), middle-aged (n=22), and elder (n=50)). The models’ segmentation performance was evaluated against expert manual annotations using the Dice Similarity Coefficient (Dice). For the predicted dataset, the results are correlated with body composition results and physical performance data. Results: The deep learning segmentation achieved excellent performance across all muscle groups. The mean Dice were: RF (0.8260), RA (0.8810), biceps (0.8370), triceps (0.8080), and PLPB (0.9200), indicating a high accuracy compared to the ground truth. Furthermore, these AI-derived metrics demonstrated strong clinical validity through high correlations with body composition data. The appendicular muscles has the highest associations found between triceps CSA and MM (r=0.8212), PLPB MT and ASM (r=0.7462), and RA CSA and BMR (r=0.6398). Conclusions: By applying a deep learning-powered framework, the ultrasound provides accurate, highly efficient segmentation of multiple muscles for sarcopenia assessment, making US a practical method for sarcopenia assessment and enabling its adoption in community-based screening and the longitudinal management of sarcopenia.
Objective: To address challenges faced by older adults in smart home interface operations, such as high cognitive load and symbol recognition difficulties, this study attempts to propose a preliminary age-friendly interaction design method based on the "Long-term Memory Mapping (LMM) model" and explore the potential value of nostalgic symbols in interface design. Method: Through literature analysis and in-depth interviews, nostalgic symbols familiar to older adults were identified, and a five-layer LMM structural model was constructed. Retro-style icons with a 1980s aesthetic were designed. A within-subject controlled experiment was conducted with 15 older adults aged 60-75 to compare their performance between the nostalgic icon group and the modern flat icon group in terms of first-time recognition accuracy, task completion time, and error frequency. Results: The nostalgic icon group performed better than the control group in first-time recognition accuracy, task completion time, and error frequency. Conclusion: The preliminary findings of this exploratory study suggest that the use of nostalgic symbols is associated with the activation of long-term memory in older adults and may contribute to reduced cognitive load and improved operational efficiency. The LMM model offers some insights for the design of age-friendly interfaces in smart homes; however, the specific contribution of the “nostalgia effect” and its causal mechanisms still require further testing in future studies that strictly control for confounding variables.
Background: Singapore’s population is rapidly aging. By 2026, the nation will be “super-aged” with over 1 in 5 citizens ≥65 years old, with this ratio increasing to 1 in 4 (approximately 1 million residents) by 2030. Loneliness and social isolation are prevalent among older adults, and are linked to depression, cognitive decline, and poorer physical health. A 2021 survey found nearly 1 in 3 Singapore older persons (aged ≥60) feel lonely most of the time and global statistics indicate an estimated one in four older persons experience loneliness. Reminiscence therapy – the guided recall of past events and experiences – is a popular psychosocial intervention that can improve older adults’ well-being. Traditional reminiscence utilizes stimuli like photographs, music, or personal mementos. Emerging technology such as immersive virtual reality (VR) offers a novel medium for reminiscence by vividly recreating places and experiences, potentially enhancing engagement and emotional impact. VR-based reminiscence has shown promise in improving mood, reducing isolation, and stimulating memories in older adults (Syed-Abdul et al., 2019). However, the role of fully immersive VR in reminiscence interventions remains nascent; few rigorous studies have evaluated its effects on healthy older persons’ psychosocial outcomes. To date, no structured RCT research in Singapore has examined the use of VR in reminiscence, making this the first local study to do so. Objective: This protocol aims to evaluate the efficacy of immersive VR reminiscence therapy in enhancing psychosocial well-being among community-dwelling older adults in Singapore, compared to traditional reminiscence using photos/videos. The primary objectives are to evaluate the impact of VR on quality of life, subjective happiness, and loneliness., and to examine older adults’ technology acceptance of VR using the Senior Technology Acceptance Model (STAM). A secondary objective aims to explore participants’ experiences in the use of VR and any practical or ethical considerations in implementing VR for older persons. Methods: The study will involve a two-arm randomized controlled trial with 60 older adults (≥60 years) recruited from elder care centers. Participants will be randomly assigned (1:1) to an intervention group (VR reminiscence therapy) or a control group (traditional reminiscence with equivalent content in 2D). Both groups will undergo four weekly reminiscence sessions guided by a trained facilitator, each built around a specific theme and content module. VR sessions will include the use of an immersive headset to present 360° video or virtual environments tailored to reminiscence themes (e.g., visiting a local heritage site or a past travel destination), followed by guided group discussions. Control sessions will involve similar themes and facilitator prompts but use photos, videos or music on a TV/tablet (2D format) instead. Outcome measures will be administered at baseline (pre-intervention) and post-intervention. The key measurements include the Older People’s Quality of Life questionnaire (OPQOL-brief) for quality of life, the Subjective Happiness Scale, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale. Technology acceptance will be measured via a 14-item Senior Technology Acceptance Model (STAM) questionnaire adapted for VR (Shin et al., 2023). Additional measures include demographic and health information, and session feedback. All participants will provide informed consent, and ethical approval has been obtained from the institutional review board. Quantitative data will be collected via interviewer-administered surveys, and qualitative observations or interviews will be conducted to capture participants’ experiences with the VR intervention. Results: The primary outcomes (quality of life, happiness, loneliness) and technology acceptance scores will be compared between the VR and control groups after the intervention. We hypothesize that the VR group will show greater improvements in psychosocial well-being than the control group, and that older adults will report high acceptance of the VR technology (e.g. perceiving it as useful and not overly difficult to use). No interim analyses are planned. As this is a protocol paper, the results are not presented at this stage. Conclusions: This study will inform if immersive VR reminiscence can enhance older adults’ well-being beyond conventional reminiscence approaches, and if VR could become a valuable tool for active aging initiatives, reducing loneliness and improving quality of life for older persons in Singapore (Syed-Abdul et al., 2019). The findings will also inform gerontechnology acceptance theory by applying the STAM to immersive VR: identifying factors that facilitate or hinder older persons’ adoption of VR for therapy. By outlining detailed session designs and ethical safeguards, this protocol aims to guide safe and meaningful implementation of VR reminiscence in eldercare settings. Ultimately, this pioneering local study can provide evidence to policymakers and practitioners on integrating immersive media into psychosocial care for the aging population and pave the way for larger-scale trials and innovation in reminiscence therapy.
Background: Doll therapy is a non- pharmacological method that uses lifelike dolls to comfort people with dementia, reduce anxiety, and evoke positive emotions. A locally developed Cantonese-speaking smart companion doll, named as LittleSmart, shown to positively impact dementia-related behavioral and psychological symptoms, has been developed. This doll has been used in various elderly care settings to gather feedback from stakeholders for evaluation and further enhancements. Method: Since 2022, SmartLittle has been trialed in over 150 elderly care units, serving over 380 persons with mild cognitive impairment and 600 with moderate to severe dementia for a period of 3 months. Workers received operational training before the program started, and feedback was collected through a questionnaire after completion. Result: Among the participating units, 94% completed the trial period. 51 units gave written comments concerning 7 aspects of usage, including the speech speed and loudness; interactivity; battery supply and charging; ease of control; available contents and recordings for use; emotional interaction and overall appearance of the doll. Among the 83 units that have completed the feedback questionnaire after the trial programme, 84% of them will recommend the smart doll to other units for use. Conclusion: The Cantonese-speaking smart doll provided an affordable way to alleviate the burden of caregivers in supporting dementia patients. With the input provided by stakeholders, the developer will continue to enhance the doll design to address the local needs. Overall, users agreed that the use of this smart doll can improve the quality of elderly care services.
Background: Video calling has been increasingly adopted in residential aged care facilities (RACFs) to support social connectedness among residents, particularly during disease outbreaks when visitor restrictions are in place (e.g., COVID-19). While prior studies have highlighted its benefits, various challenges often hinder effective implementation. However, limited research has explored strategies to address these challenges and optimise their benefits. Research aim: This study investigates: (1) the challenges faced when implementing video-calling activities for social connectedness in RACFs, and (2) how these activities can be implemented effectively. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten Australian RACF staff experienced in supporting residents’ video calls. Data were thematically analysed to identify socio-technical factors influencing adoption and use. Results: Several socio-technical challenges within the settings were reported when video-calling programs were introduced. These included concerns arising from the complex conditions of residents, limited staff and devices, and low-tech infrastructure. Furthermore, the findings revealed significant staff involvement in device setup, conversational mediation, and both technical and psychosocial support. A “facilitation triad” emerged, comprising residents, staff, and technology, underpinned by residents’ needs, staff capabilities, and resident engagement. Organisational and external factors further shaped the outcomes. Conclusion: Effective video-calling in RACFs depends on optimising the facilitation triad and leveraging supportive organisational and external conditions, ensuring technology enhances social connectedness.
Introduction:Jigsawdio is a multi-sensory personalized puzzle system that blends images and audio to stimulate cognitive function and emotional well-being in people living with dementia. This pilot study was designed to provide evidence of the effect of the use of the Jigsawdio program on cognitive function and depression among people living with dementia. Methods:This was a single-arm, mixed-method pilot study designed to test pre-/post-changes in cognitive function and mood among people living with dementia. A total of 19 participants (people living with dementia n=9, caregivers n=6, and facility staff n=1) participated in the study. The program was designed to be implemented twice a week for six weeks, with each session lasting 30-40 minutes. We measured the baseline of the people living with dementia before the first session, and the final posttest was conducted at the end of the last session (n=9). After completion, semi-structured interviews were conducted with people living with dementia, caregivers, and staff members (n=16). Results:Significant differences between the pre and post intervention assessments (post - pre) were found in cognition and depression scores (M: 4.55, SD = 2.92, t = 4.68, 95% CI: 2.31 - 6.80, p <.05; M = -1.00, SD = 1.00, t = -3.00, 95% CI: -1.76 - -0.23, p <.05). Qualitative findings indicated that participants experienced enhanced cognitive function and improved emotional health, though some participants also reported experiencing difficulties in solving the puzzles that led to a sense of frustration and emotional attachment to past experiences that should be considered by researchers of future clinical trials involving people living with dementia. Discussion:The findings of this study indicate that participating in the Jigsawdio activity can be instrumental in promoting improved cognitive function and reduced depression among people living with dementia participants and that this technology-based multisensory jigsaw puzzle program can be added to the inventory of promising innovative interventions designed to improve the cognitive and emotional health of people living with dementia. Conclusion:The study findings also emphasize the importance of technology-based jigsaw puzzles that integrate narration, photos, and music to provide a novel and fun experience that results in improvements in the cognition and emotional health of people living with dementia.
Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, new processes and policies were implemented to limit the spread of COVID-19 in long-term care homes (LTCH). Technology use within LTCH changed significantly. Research Aim: The purpose of this literature review was to examine the breath of evidence in the use of technology in LTCHs in North America during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework, five databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed articles using key words and subject headings related to Long Term Care, COVID-19, and Technology. Results: Research articles that described the investigation of, or the analysis of reported data on, the use of any kind of technology in LTCHs in North America during the COVID-19 pandemic were included for analysis. There were 121 articles retrieved, of which 32 articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included for analysis. Technology was deployed in support of the quality of life of LTCH residents in the context of social isolation, telehealth, virtual services, multidisciplinary collaborations, continuing education and training, infection prevention and control services, and activities, computer-based modelling for the LTCH setting. Technologies described included robots, web-based websites and games, and computer-based models that predict COVID-19 transmission in LTCHs, though most described the use of information and communication technologies to connect people within the LTCH to those outside the LTCH. Researchers also noted technology challenges in LTCH such as poor technological infrastructure, unstable Wi-Fi connectivity and inadequate number of devices to support virtual visits, other online recreation activities in LTCH, as well as the provision of telehealth services. Conclusion: Findings emphasize the need to examine the impacts of technology use in LTCH in rural and remote areas, to inform actionable insights to the promote accessible, inclusive, and sustainable adoption of new technologies across all LTCH settings.
Background: Digital home assistants can support older adults with a range of daily activities and reduce their needs for support. These benefits are only possible if the older adults can successfully learn how to use them and maintain their use over time. Research is needed to explore older adults’ perspectives on learning to use digital home assistants to uncover the factors that influence their experience. Research aim: The purpose of this study was to explore the perspectives of older adults regarding the factors that impacted their experience learning to use digital home assistants. Methods: Participants were 35 community-dwelling older adults between the ages of 60 and 81 who reported owning a digital home assistant. This mixed-method study included questionnaires (demographics, technology experience, mobile device proficiency, technology readiness, digital home assistant usage), and a semi-structured interview designed to explore participants’ attitudes, experiences, and preferences for learning to use their device based on components from the Personalized Instruction and Continued Support (PICS) Framework (i.e., user profile, environmental characteristics, and technology characteristics; Blocker, 2022). Results: Participants discussed facilitators and barriers related to their user profile (abilities, age, attitudes and motivations); environmental characteristics (stressors, learning environment, social support); and technology characteristics (complexity, novelty, usability). Perceived barriers included instructions not being designed for their age group, memory demands, stress and distraction, lack of social support, as well as technology novelty and complexity. Perceived facilitators included general technology proficiency; expectations from others; benefits of use; ease of use; learning efficiency and memorability; as well as satisfaction and enjoyment of use. Conclusions: The findings highlighted the need to increase the availability of education and training to support older adults’ use of smart home technologies. We have provided guidelines developed from the results to provide direction for the design of instructional protocols, including specifications for intelligent instructional software.
Background: Dementia is among the fastest-growing global diseases, with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) representing 60–70% of all cases. In Spain, over 900,000 people are currently affected, and this number is expected to double within the next 20 years. This research focuses on Catalonia, where an estimated 90.000 individuals live with AD or related dementias. Care responsibilities largely fall on family members, primarily women—especially daughters or spouses—aged between 45 and 64 years. Research Objective: This study assesses the usability, accessibility, and perceived usefulness of AreaAlzheimer (AA), a digital platform designed to support Alzheimer’s family caregivers. AA offers resources such as information, emotional support, community engagement, training, and research participation. Methods: A mixed-methods design was used. Quantitative data were collected via standardised scales: accessibility (Single Ease Question), usability (System Usability Scale), and usefulness (Perceived Usefulness Scale and Behavioural Intention Scale). Qualitative data were gathered through focus groups. Participants were 40 family caregivers of individuals with AD, drawn from the Pasqual Maragall Foundation database. Results: Accessibility and intention to use received the highest ratings (average score: 4.5/5), while perceived usefulness was rated lower (3.4/5). The platform’s usability scored 74.3/100, suggesting acceptable functionality. Focus group discussions highlighted a need for enhanced visual design and accessibility features to accommodate users with varying levels of digital literacy. Conclusion: Findings indicate that digital platforms like AA have significant potential to support informal caregivers. However, continuous improvements based on user feedback are essential to ensure broader usability and relevance.
Background: This study evaluates 'Remindful,' a home-based reminder system designed to support people living with dementia (PLwDs) and their caregivers, assessing its usability and the effectiveness of its integration into daily routines. Research Aim: The study aims to refine and evaluate the usability of the 'Remindful' system, collect and analyze interaction data to optimize its functionality, and provide actionable insights that can inform the development of future digital reminder systems. The objectives focus on assessing the usability of the Remindful system to meet the practical needs of PLwDs and caregivers, demonstrating the feasibility of using collected data to optimize reminder delivery and identify usage patterns, and utilizing the findings to enhance future digital reminder systems by focusing on optimizing reminder timing and detecting anomalies. Methods: Data were collected by logging reminder interactions from two dyads of PLwDs and caregivers to assess system usability in real-world settings. Data-driven techniques, including predictive modeling and anomaly detection, were applied to explore opportunities for optimizing reminder timing and identifying unusual usage patterns. Results: The study analyzed the system's ease of use, user satisfaction, and the effectiveness of reminder acknowledgment across various home locations. The findings suggest that Remindful is effective in improving daily task management, though challenges in accessibility and reminder customization were identified. Conclusion: The results emphasize the need for continuous user feedback in refining cognitive support technologies (CSTs) and demonstrate the system's potential in everyday settings. Future research should focus on broader testing to ensure adaptability and effectiveness across diverse populations.
Background: Recent advances in gerontechnology have provided benefits for both healthy and pathological aging. Certain neurological conditions, such as stroke, can diminish patient independence by impairing mobility and postural control. Objective: To investigate whether an articulated knee orthosis can enhance mobility and postural control in stroke patients. Method: Fifty hemiparetic participants with a history of ischemic stroke (mean age: 59.2 ± 7.6 years; time since stroke: 50.8 ± 32.4 months) participated in walking and standing tasks, with and without an articulated knee orthosis on their hemiparetic side. Mobility was assessed using the timed get-up-and-go test, which included measures of time and number of steps. Postural control was evaluated using the K-Force Plate system and included measures of center of pressure, total displacement, frontal and lateral sway, and weight distribution. Paired comparisons were used to assess differences in outcomes with and without knee orthosis. Significance was set at 5%. Effect sizes (ES) were reported. Results: The use of an articulated knee orthosis significantly improved mobility of the participants (p = 0.004; ES = 0.466 for time and p = 0.003; ES = 0.441 for number of steps). In terms of postural control, only lateral sway showed significant improvement (p = 0.031; ES = 0.189). Conclusion: The use of an articulated knee orthosis significantly improved mobility in participants with a history of stroke. In contrast, among all postural control variables, only lateral sway showed improvement. Gerontechnology should further explore devices capable of enhancing postural control more effectively in stroke patients.
Background: In the coming decades, the population of individuals aged 65 and above is projected to experience a notable surge. This demographic transition demands novel approaches to improve and transform elder care practices using emerging gerontechnologies. Objective: This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the gerontechnology domain and its applications in elderly care. Furthermore, it aims to improve understanding in the care field and promote the advancement of elder care by utilizing evidence-based strategies and identifying research priorities. Method: This article is based on a systematic review of the literature published between January 2022 and December 2023, which was conducted by employing the PRISMA methodology, and reputable databases such as PsycInfo, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and CINAHL were used to compile the data. Results: This research aims to categorize existing technologies to reveal a diverse array of products and technologies to address the distinct needs of the elderly. Their implementation within the care sector is given particular attention in order to emphasize innovative approaches to enhance the quality of senior care. Moreover, the research highlights the current scientific challenges, limitations and research gaps in the development and integration of advanced technologies that are observed within the field of gerontechnology. This enables the researchers to improve the existing knowledge of the field and offers a comprehensive foundation for directing future research efforts and technological innovations. Conclusion: This framework is intended to serve as a strategic guide for advancing the integration of emerging technologies into elder care practices. This paper provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers by presenting a thorough analysis of the current state of gerontechnology. It highlights critical scientific challenges as well as strategic recommendations for addressing these issues.
Background: Social robots are known to improve mood and communication among older adults in care facilities. Although many studies have focused on robot’s effects on activities involving multiple participants, few have examined their impact in conversational settings, which is crucial for enhancing mood and quality of life. Research aim: This study aims to elucidate the facilitating effects of the social robot ‘aibo’ on the mood and conversation between residents and staff in a care facility, focusing on conversational interactions. Methods: Ten pairs of residents and staff from a care facility participated in a 20-minute conversation in both the presence and absence of aibo (aibo and non-aibo conditions). Residents’ mood changes before and after the conversation were measured using a face scale, while staff mood changes were assessed using both the face scale and the Profile of Mood States Second Edition. The duration of speech, number of turns (turn taking), and degree of conversational depth were analysed using video recordings. Results: A significant increase in positive mood scores was observed for both residents and staff after conversations under the aibo condition. The staff also exhibited a significant reduction in negative emotion scores after the conversation, which was further enhanced by the presence of aibo. The speaking time of the residents did not differ between conditions, but that of the staff decreased significantly under the aibo condition. Furthermore, conversational depth was significantly lower in the aibo condition than in the non-aibo condition. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that, while aibo may not promote conversation itself, its presence can significantly enhance the positive mood effects of conversations. These findings suggest the potential use of social robots, such as aibo, as psychological support tools for residents and staff.
Background: Dementia represents a primary global public health concern. Gerontechnology can support community-dwelling older adults living with dementia and their family caregivers to age in place. Research Aim: The current systematic review of the literature aims to provide a comprehensive description of technologies designed and tested to assist community-dwelling older adults living with dementia to do so. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in five different databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, AgeLine, and Web of Science) and validated by two independent librarians. Using COVIDENCE software, two independent reviewers screened records from 2012 to 2022, available in English, French, and Spanish. Results: There were 1563 references published. After removing the duplicates, 877 titles and abstracts were screened and the full text of 132 studies was assessed for eligibility, with only 20 records meeting inclusion criteria. Conclusion: The technologies identified have overlapping functionalities including: a) behavioral monitoring, b) health monitoring, c) caregiver education, d) communication, e) tracking devices, and e) reminders, emergency warnings, and solutions for social isolation and daily activities support. We present a theoretical model to conceptualize gerontechnology use in people living with dementia and their family caregivers and provide recommendations for clinical practice, research, technological development, and public policy to foster the development and implementation of gerontechnology in the dementia continuum.
Background: This paper presents the researchers’ experiences with recruiting people liv- ing with dementia for a field study aimed to test or develop non-pharmacological inter- ventions. Performing this kind of research is necessary to be able to provide appropriate and effective interventions for people with dementia. Research aim/questions: The aim is to find out the pros and cons of recruiting PwD for field studies comprising technological innovations. Methods: This short paper is based on the experiences of researchers during their studies, combined with a rapid literature search. Results: Incorporating technological innovations as a non-pharmacological intervention poses a challenge to recruitment success. Several influencing factors influence the success of the recruitment process. For example, personal contact or recruitment via welfare and care organizations can be helpful. Conclusion: Collaboration and different strategies can be helpful for the recruitment process.
Background: After the COVID-19 pandemic, older people are increasingly expected to use information and communication technology to maintain social relationships and opportunities for social participation. Research Aim: This study examines how mobile phone use among community-dwelling older adults is related to subjective well-being (SWB). In particular, this study analyzes both social connections through online means, focusing on the purpose of mobile phone use, and real-life connections, which are based on household composition and the residential location of children. Methods: A postal questionnaire survey was conducted in 2023 targeting residents aged 65 and over living in a city in Japan with a population structure similar to the national average. From a pool of individuals aged 65 and over, 804 participants were randomly selected through simple random sampling and received the survey. There were 280 valid respondents (valid response rate: 34.8%). Results: Multiple regression analysis revealed that the use of mobile phones for calls and map searches had a statistically positive relationship with subjective well-being (SWB). On the other hand, household composition and the residential location of children were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Among the purposes of use, ‘calls’ and ‘map searches’ were suggested to contribute to the improvement of subjective well-being among older adults.
Background: Digital home assistants (DHAs) can provide support for a wide range of everyday activities. They may be particularly useful for people who are aging, especially those with mobility disabilities, as they are voice-activated. However, barriers such as concerns about privacy could prevent older users from taking advantage of the full po- tential of DHAs. Research Aim: Understanding the attitudes of those aging with mobility disabilities re- garding privacy and DHAs. Methods: Participants were 14 community-dwelling older adults who self-identified as having a long-term mobility disability (i.e., 10 years or more). This mixed-method study included questionnaires and a semi-structured interview administered after 10 weeks of using a DHA. Results: Participants reported using their DHAs for a range of activities, including sup- porting leisure, hobby, entertainment, and health monitoring and maintenance activities. Most had at least some knowledge about how their device worked and how it stored and used their data. Most participants held the belief that control over their personal informa- tion was important and that privacy was highly valued. They expressed nuanced attitudes about privacy issues related to their DHAs. Privacy themes included the idea that their data was not of interest or value; there are no conspiracies directed toward data; there is a need to build confidence or trust with a device and an acknowledgement and acceptance of some risk. A common theme among participants was their appreciation for the benefits of using DHAs despite concerns about privacy risks. Conclusions: Older adults with long-term mobility disabilities reported using their DHAs for a wide variety of activities and perceived benefits from doing so. They reported a range of attitudes about privacy, from a lack of concern to some strong concerns. The findings suggest that increased education and training about privacy risks and protective strategies could facilitate use, given the high value participants placed on privacy.
Background: Research in Japan shows that the older people get, the more they look for- ward to traveling as a way of life in their old age, and among those who have traveled domestically and internationally, those in their 60s and 70s account for a large percent- age, which has a significant economic impact on the travel industry. Kure City in Hiro- shima Prefecture is aging and has a declining population. Still, it was once an important center for the rapid development and dissemination of advanced science and technology throughout Japan. The authors, in collaboration with industry and academia, planned a boat tour using augmented reality (AR) technology to help visitors rediscover the history of Kure Bay. The tour was incorporated on a trial basis into some of the historical exploration tours of the Kure area offered by a major travel agency from the Tokyo metropolitan area and other major cities and was conducted five times. Objective: Although participants were assumed to be men and women in their 60s when the plan was formulated, most participants were older, ranging from their late 60s to 80s, with the oldest in their 90s. Approximately 30% of the initial participants complained in the post-program questionnaire that they found the AR equipment difficult to use and could not see. Therefore, this study aimed to explore what improvements and support would satisfy the older participants. Methods: In the second and subsequent trials, changes were made, such as replacing the explainer, reducing the equipment used, and changing the explanation method. The total number of valid responses for the five trials was 83. Results: Complaints decreased after the third session when staff familiar with older people were also familiar with the equipment, and the explanations were more concise. Also, after the fourth session, when the equipment was made more succinct, the desired price, assuming a charge, was statistically significantly higher than before the third session. Conclusion: Although we are still determining what caused older people to fail to operate the system, staff accustomed to dealing with older people provided concise explanations and friendly operating assistance, which reduced the frustration caused by their failures. In addition, by reducing the number of devices, making the AR content appear larger, and showing the university's involvement, the enjoyment and satisfaction of the project increased, and the desire to use it increased even more.
Background: Older adults aspire to maintain their autonomy in their preferred environments and remain active in their community. However, disabilities or age-related changes can present obstacles to achieving this goal. Voice-activated digital assistants and smart home technologies are potential solutions to support older adults. However, widespread implementation of these technologies has not been explored for older adults with mobility disabilities, who may have unique needs. Research aim: This study investigated how voice-activated digital assistants and connected smart home technologies can specifically benefit older adults with mobility disabilities, with the provision of facilitating conditions such as instructional support for initial and continued use. Method: We provided twenty-four community-dwelling older adults with mobility disabilities with an Amazon Echo Show, a smart plug, and a smart light, along with instructional manuals tailored to their needs. Participants were taught to install the technologies and asked to use them for five weeks. We assessed their overall technology readiness and pro- ficiency, feelings of loneliness, and ability to use smart home technologies. We conducted in-depth interviews to gain deeper insights into their experiences and perspectives. Results: Step-by-step instructional manuals supported their successful installation and utilization of the provided technologies. Participants reported good usability and high confidence in using these technologies. Qualitative analysis showed that these technologies improved functional independence by enabling participants to control their home environment remotely, increase safety, and enable them to access up-to-date information. They had a significant reduction in loneliness after 5 weeks (p = .003), attributed to increased social connections and entertainment and viewing the voice-activated digital assistants as companions. Conclusion: Voice-activated digital assistants and smart home technologies have the potential to support older adults with mobility disabilities, assuming the right resources are provided to facilitate utilization. Healthcare professionals and researchers should recognize the unique benefits of these technologies for this population to promote their adoption and use effectively.
