Abstract
A public health emergency may increase the reliance on smart home technologies (SHT) to bridge health care and psychosocial support among community-dwelling older adults (CDOA). CDOA in particular are adversely impacted by ‘shelter-in-place’ and ‘social distancing’ orders due to limited social networks and preexisting characteristics associated with perceived barriers to SHT utilization. Using a qualitative semi-structured interview method, a study sample (n=35) ranging in age from 65- 99 years was interviewed to investigate the perspectives on utilizing SHT. Three main themes emerged as: perceived barriers; facilitators; and preferences for SHT. Study findings suggest that SHT can mitigate adverse health effects during public health emergencies by increasing psychosocial connections with formal and informal care providers while increasing the safety and security of CDOA.
Presenters
Travis Michael Gagen Dr.Assistant Professor of Health Sciences, School of Health Professions, Assumption University, Massachusetts, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Emergency Preparedness, Older Adults, Smart Home Technology, Home and Community
