Theoretical background: The aim to meet older adults’ desire to remain independent at home while controlling health care costs has led to the development of “smart home” or assistive technologies. A smart home is a residence equipped with technology that enhances safety of patients at home and monitors their condition. This study was a needs assessment for the design of such devices and sensors for older adults. This design will be integrated in Tiger Place, a 34,000 square foot facility developed by the University of Missouri-Columbia with Americare Systems, Inc., of Sikeston, Missouri. Emphasis has been placed on design that supports independence, helping residents to age in place.
Study aim: This study aims to assess seniors’ attitudes towards and perceptions of “smart home” technologies, possible concerns and overall perceived utility. Furthermore, we aimed to determine the areas of daily living that seniors identify as appropriate for such interventions.
Methods and Sample: We conducted 3 focus group sessions with 15 older adults to determine the types of sensors and devices that would constitute an acceptable smart home design. All participants were over the age of 65 living in a continuing care retirement facility. Each session lasted approximately one hour. Seven participants were male and eight were female. The sessions were audio-taped.
Results and Conclusions: The majority of the participants had some experience with personal computers and portable devices. Areas that were identified as potential application domains for advanced technologies included emergency help, prevention and detection of falls, and monitoring of physiological parameters. Concerns included the level of user-friendliness of the devices, a potential lack of human response and the need for training tailored to older learners. The findings indicate that technology can enhance nursing care if designed to address patients’ needs and expectations rather than to simply follow current technological developments.
Session #1115 - Environmental Supports for Aging
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)