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Lindberg J, Lundgren AS. Peer-to-peer sharing in public health interventions: strategies when people share health-related personal information on social media. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024; 19:2367841. [PMID: 38920110 PMCID: PMC11210409 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2024.2367841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE As sharing on social media has become an integrated part of everyday life, health and public health actors have started to show interest in the potential of people's peer-to-peer sharing of health-related personal information (HRI) for health interventions. In this article we focus on how people make sense of sharing HRI on social media. METHODS Twenty-two people between the ages 40 and 60 who had taken part in a regional health intervention were interviewed. Using theories about social media sharing, we explore their understandings and negotiations about whether, how much, and how to share HRI and discuss the results in relation to peer-to-peer sharing as a strategy in interventions. RESULTS We identified three aspects that were perceived as particularly risky: loss of control, effects on identity, and affecting others negatively, along with strategies that were used to manage risks in practice: avoiding sharing, allocating, and embedding HRI. CONCLUSIONS By allocating and embedding HRI, people can unlock motivating affordances for health work. However, strategies to manage risks can also be counterproductive. For actors to provide equality in health promotion, initiatives that include social media sharing need to be mindful of the sometimes counterproductive effects this may have on people's engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Lindberg
- Department of Social Work, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Sofia Lundgren
- Department of Culture and Media Studies, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Centre for Demographic and Ageing Research, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Gao Y, Liang J, Xu Z. Digital social media expression and social adaptability of the older adult driven by artificial intelligence. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1424898. [PMID: 39267635 PMCID: PMC11390374 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1424898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study examines the impact of digital new media art on the health literacy and digital health literacy of older adults. It explores how digital new media art influences the social adaptability of the older adult, with a focus on variations in their engagement with digital technologies and community activities. Methods The research employed interviews and observations of older adult participants from communities A and B. Data were collected on their smartphone usage, community engagement, and access to technological infrastructure. The study also assessed their interaction with digital new media across various domains, including interpersonal communication, information retrieval, entertainment, practical applications, and mobile payments. Results The study found significant differences in engagement with digital new media art among the older adult. Participants with prior computer experience were generally more skilled in using smartphones and more active in community events. In contrast, individuals in community B showed lower acceptance of digital new media art and no clear association with community participation. There was substantial variability in their use of digital media for information retrieval, entertainment, practical applications, and mobile payments. Some older adult individuals demonstrated proficiency with these technologies, while others were more reserved. Discussion The findings suggest that digital new media art can enhance community participation and social adaptability among older adults, particularly those with prior computer experience. However, disparities in digital media usage highlight the need for targeted interventions to improve digital health literacy and engagement across different community settings. The study underscores the importance of addressing these disparities to ensure that all older adults can benefit from digital advancements, thereby improving their overall well-being and health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Gao
- Advanced Graduate School of Imaging, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Zhengbing Xu
- School of Art and Design, Wuhan Technology and Business University, Wuhan, China
- Local Art, Udon Thani Rajabhat University, Udon Thani, Thailand
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Wilson J, Heinsch M, Tickner C, Speirs B, Wells H, Kay-Lambkin F. Uptake and engagement of a clinically moderated digital peer support platform to support the mental well-being older adults: a qualitative investigation. Psychogeriatrics 2024. [PMID: 39192632 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.13181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The uptake of traditional mental health services among older adults remains low. Digital peer support offers older adults a resource for engaging with others to independently support their mental well-being. This qualitative study explored the uptake and engagement of a clinically moderated digital peer support platform (Breathing Space) for older adults with depressive symptoms and alcohol use concerns. METHODS Semi-structured interviews with 30 participants aged 60-80 years explored participants' uptake and engagement with Breathing Space, a novel, moderated, private, and anonymous peer support platform. Data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis and are discussed with reference to the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology2. RESULTS Three themes were constructed to characterize participants' experiences: (i) navigating the complexities of peer-peer online engagement; (ii) the function of anonymity in online connection; and (iii) experiences of app features and content. CONCLUSIONS Future development of digital peer support for older adults would benefit from the following: (i) co-design with older adults; (ii) providing choice over anonymity and increased options for interacting with peers; (iii) streamlining the basic functionality with popular platforms; (iv) providing options for users to curate their digital experience; and (v) providing telephone support for troubleshooting technical difficulties. Future research should explore the use of digital peer support among older adults who experience social exclusion challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Wilson
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Milena Heinsch
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Campbell Tickner
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Bronte Speirs
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hannah Wells
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Frances Kay-Lambkin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Newett L, McWhirter R, Eckstein L, Warren V, Nicol D. Australian Attitudes Towards Waivers of Consent Within the Context of Genomic Data Sharing. J Empir Res Hum Res Ethics 2024; 19:113-123. [PMID: 39096208 PMCID: PMC11298119 DOI: 10.1177/15562646241261848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
This research identifies the circumstances in which Human Research Ethics Committees (HRECs) are trusted by Australians to approve the use of genomic data - without express consent - and considers the impact of genomic data sharing settings, and respondent attributes, on public trust. Survey results (N = 3013) show some circumstances are more conducive to public trust than others, with waivers endorsed when future research is beneficial and when privacy is protected, but receiving less support in other instances. Still, results imply attitudes are influenced by more than these specific circumstances, with different data sharing settings, and participant attributes, affecting views. Ultimately, this research raises questions and concerns in relation to the criteria HRECs use when authorising waivers of consent in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsay Newett
- University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Rebekah McWhirter
- University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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5
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Dino MJS, Dion KW, Abadir PM, Budhathoki C, Huang CM, Ong I, Vital JC, Cotter VT, Himmelfarb CRD, Davidson PM. Mixed reality technology for older adults: Evaluating the impact of a novel virtual humanoid coach in a community-based physical exercise program in the Philippines. Health Informatics J 2024; 30:14604582241267793. [PMID: 39096029 DOI: 10.1177/14604582241267793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Physical inactivity among older adults remains a global burden, leading to a variety of health challenges and even mortality. This study evaluated the impact of a novel virtual humanoid coach-driven physical exercise program among older adults. A non-randomized (quasi) experimental research was conducted in two community senior centers. The recruited participants (n = 130) were primarily female older adults with a mean age of 66.40 and agreed to be purposively assigned either experimental or control groups. Trained healthcare providers performed health assessments in three time points using valid and reliable tools. Descriptive statistics, t-tests, and RM-ANOVA were used to quantitatively analyze the data using SPSS version 22. There are significant mean differences between the groups across all functional capacity assessments and Time 2-3 assessment of sleep quality. RM-ANOVA revealed significant differences in physical assessment over time between the two groups. The analyses of time and group interaction revealed significant improvement in health assessments among the members of the mixed reality group compared to the traditional groups. The impact of virtual coaches in community-based enhancing physical activity programs is comparable to the traditional mode and introduces a novel approach to promoting physical activity among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Joseph S Dino
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Research, Development, and Innovation Center, Our Lady of Fatima University, Valenzuela City, Philippines
- Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Kenneth W Dion
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Peter M Abadir
- School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Chien-Ming Huang
- Department of Computer Science, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Irvin Ong
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Research, Development, and Innovation Center, Our Lady of Fatima University, Valenzuela City, Philippines
- Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Joseph Carlo Vital
- Research, Development, and Innovation Center, Our Lady of Fatima University, Valenzuela City, Philippines
| | - Valerie T Cotter
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Cheryl R Dennison Himmelfarb
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Patricia M Davidson
- School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- The Vice-Chancellor's Unit, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Sigma Theta Tau, International Honor Society of Nursing, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Komatsu T, Fraune MR, Tsui KM, Suda S, Kobayashi M. How did COVID-19 pandemic affect the older adults' needs for robot technologies in Japan?: comparison of participatory design workshops during versus after the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Robot AI 2024; 11:1363243. [PMID: 38894894 PMCID: PMC11184464 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2024.1363243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Social technology can improve the quality of social lives of older adults (OAs) and mitigate negative mental and physical health outcomes. When people engage with technology, they can do so to stimulate social interaction (stimulation hypothesis) or disengage from their real world (disengagement hypothesis), according to Nowland et al.'s model of the relationship between social Internet use and loneliness. External events, such as large periods of social isolation like during the COVID-19 pandemic, can also affect whether people use technology in line with the stimulation or disengagement hypothesis. We examined how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the social challenges OAs faced and their expectations for robot technology to solve their challenges. We conducted two participatory design (PD) workshops with OAs during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, OAs' primary concern was distanced communication with family members, with a prevalent desire to assist them through technology. They also wanted to share experiences socially, as such OA's attitude toward technology could be explained mostly by the stimulation hypothesis. However, after COVID-19 the pandemic, their focus shifted towards their own wellbeing. Social isolation and loneliness were already significant issues for OAs, and these were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, such OAs' attitudes toward technology after the pandemic could be explained mostly by the disengagement hypothesis. This clearly reflect the OA's current situation that they have been getting further digitally excluded due to rapid technological development during the pandemic. Both during and after the pandemic, OAs found it important to have technologies that were easy to use, which would reduce their digital exclusion. After the pandemic, we found this especially in relation to newly developed technologies meant to help people keep at a distance. To effectively integrate these technologies and avoid excluding large parts of the population, society must address the social challenges faced by OAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Komatsu
- Department of Frontier Media Science, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Marlena R. Fraune
- Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | | | - Shogo Suda
- Department of Frontier Media Science, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mizuki Kobayashi
- Department of Frontier Media Science, Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan
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Malka M, Edelstein OE, Huss E, Hillel Lavian R. Boosting Resilience: Photovoice as a Tool for Promoting Well-Being, Social Cohesion, and Empowerment Among the Older Adult During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Appl Gerontol 2024:7334648241234488. [PMID: 38390846 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241234488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
This paper examines how older adults who participated in an online photovoice-based group intervention program reported their experience. In a qualitative-phenomenological study, in which 13 older-adult people participated, data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed through content analysis. The findings point to three central themes: a) Challenges-technical difficulties, difficulties in finding a subject for photography, investing time in photography, and an emotional-intellectual effort to put their experience into photography; b) Growth: New knowledge and skills-acquiring new knowledge, acquiring skills, experiencing skills regardless of age, and empowerment; c) Meaning-reflexivity, the ability to project feelings onto images, connection to the outside world, mindfulness, ability to choose, creativity, and critical consciousness. The findings share the way in which the use of creative visual engagement with photography contributed to coping with various challenges and enabled various gains within the process among the older-adult participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menny Malka
- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | | | - Ephrat Huss
- Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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Oakley C, Ream E. Role of the Nurse in Patient Education and Engagement and Its Importance in Advanced Breast Cancer. Semin Oncol Nurs 2024; 40:151556. [PMID: 38087678 DOI: 10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To show how people with cancer, including those with advanced breast cancer, engage with information and self-management and how cancer nurses can support patients to manage important aspects of care. Epstein and Street's patient-centered communication in cancer care (PCC) model provides a useful framework. The model incorporates six domains representing core mediating functions of patient-centered communication (Fostering healing relationships, Exchanging information, Responding to emotions, Managing uncertainty, Making decisions, and Enabling self-management) and additional moderating factors for PCC and health outcomes. DATA SOURCES Data sources include peer-reviewed articles sourced from electronic databases. CONCLUSION Common complex interrelated reasons for poor engagement include fear, denial, fatalism, bereavement, advanced disease, and poor clinician-patient relationships. This can have serious implications for physical and emotional outcomes. Facilitators include open, trusting relationships between patients and nurses, timing of information, focusing on patients' agendas, and understanding emotional concerns, beliefs, and motivations. Supporting patients and carers to work together, through evidence-based interventions and tailoring approaches, for example to older people, are important. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE Patient information and engagement are important aspects of cancer nursing. Interventions are largely based on behavior change theory, but new translational research is needed to demonstrate effectiveness. Nurses need education on how to develop skills to effectively manage this complex process to effectively engage and educate patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Oakley
- Chemotherapy Nurse Consultant, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Guy's Hospital, London, UK.
| | - Emma Ream
- Professor of Supportive Cancer Care and Director of Research, School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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Ma K, Gao M, Guida FE, He R. Understanding the influencing factors and mechanism of social compensation for Chinese older adults using social media in the context of smart home: a qualitative analysis. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1174920. [PMID: 37900045 PMCID: PMC10613092 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1174920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
As a new generation of necessary terminals for future homes, smart homes have become one of the essential mediums for smart aging at home. This paper aims to explore how older adults who age at home can overcome the digital divide of the new medium and achieve social participation in the home context to realize active aging. Based on the theory of social compensation, we select the smart-home smart screen, a representative new medium product in China, and carry out open coding, spindle coding, selective coding, and theoretical construction of the original interview data through the grounded theory research method. The results show that the main factors affecting the social compensation of older adults to smart home social media include user interface quality, interaction quality, content quality, and service quality, and these four factors are used as external variables to compensate older adults socially, thereby stimulating the emotional experience and perception changes at the cognitive level of older adults and then affecting the adoption and acceptance of smart home social media by older adults. This study refines the factors influencing the older adults' use of smart home social media from the perspective of social compensation. It explains the mechanism of acceptable behavior of older adults, bridging the gap in previous literature on the influencing factors and behavioral mechanisms of older adults of smart home social media. This paper provides a theoretical basis and guidance for the subsequent academic research and software development practice of social media under new technological devices to further help older adults in China achieve active and healthy aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Ma
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | - Meng Gao
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
| | | | - Renke He
- School of Design, Hunan University, Changsha, China
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10
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Ling K, Langlois D, Preusse H, Rheman JM, Parson D, Kuballa S, Simecek M, Tsui KM, Fraune MR. "If you weren't connected to the Internet, you were not alive": experience of using social technology during COVID-19 in adults 50. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1177683. [PMID: 37876716 PMCID: PMC10590895 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1177683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Loneliness and social isolation reduce physical and mental wellbeing. Older adults are particularly prone to social isolation due to decreased connection with previous social networks such as at workplaces. Social technology can decrease loneliness and improve wellbeing. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted quarantine and social distancing for many people, creating a context of widespread social isolation. Method In the current study, we interviewed middle-aged and older adults' (n = 20) about their use of social technology when social isolation was common: during the early part of the pandemic while social isolation and masking were still required in the United States, between August 2020 and June 2021.We analyzed the data using three-phase coding. We compare our results against the model of the bidirectional and dynamic relationship between social internet use and loneliness. Results We found that during the COVID-19 pandemic, our participants experienced decreased social interaction and moved toward online interaction. Participant use of social technology supported the stimulation hypothesis - that is, they used it to maintain existing relationships and social connection. The findings also add novel evidence that the stimulation hypothesis endures for older adults during enforced isolation (in this case due to the COVID- 19 pandemic). Discussion Based on our data, we also propose adding the presence or realism of connection via social technology as a main factor to the model and engaging with construal level theory of social presence to fill in critical variables of this relationship. We further find that digital exclusion acts as a barrier to obtaining benefits from stimulation via social technology and recommend that further research examined digital exclusion in relation to the bidirectional and dynamic model. Finally, we discuss recommendations for improving social technology to benefit middle-aged and older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Ling
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | | | - Harrison Preusse
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Jennifer M. Rheman
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Danya Parson
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Sarah Kuballa
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Martin Simecek
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | | | - Marlena R. Fraune
- Intergroup Human-Robot Interaction Lab, Department of Psychology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
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Huang G, Oteng SA. Gerontechnology for better elderly care and life quality: a systematic literature review. Eur J Ageing 2023; 20:27. [PMID: 37347277 PMCID: PMC10287881 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-023-00776-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Gerontechnology as multidisciplinary research has expanded in recent years due to its significant role in ensuring better care and improved quality of life for older adults and their caregivers. With a substantial increase in studies on reasons behind less inclination of older individuals to accept gerontechnology, barriers to its non-acceptance appear to be persistent. In addition, there is a dearth of research on the adoption of gerontechnology from the perspectives of social caregivers, given that caregivers bear a substantial burden in the form of chronic stress, which adversely affects their health and that of older people. Therefore, the aim of this study is to present a holistic perspective of older adults and their caregivers by systematically reviewing literature on gerontechnology acceptance. Adopting the preferred reported items for systematic and meta-analysis (PRISMA) framework, publications specifically on gerontechnology from 2002 to 2022 in Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed, that focused on older people (50 years and above) and caregivers (informal and formal) were reviewed. We critically evaluated 25 publications and synthesised them thematically. The results highlight that gerontechnology acceptance by older adults and their social caregivers is highly contingent on certain personal, physical, socio-cultural and technological indicators. However, this paper concludes that a generalised policy approach for gerontechnology and a better quality of life may be ineffective, considering that older adults and social caregivers constitute two heterogeneous groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genghua Huang
- School of Graduate Studies and Institute of Policy Studies, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong
| | - Samuel Ampadu Oteng
- School of Graduate Studies, Lingnan University, 8 Castle Peak Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong.
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Wilson-Menzfeld G, Gates JR, Moreland M, Raw H, Johnson A. Learning digital skills online: empowering older adults through one-to-one, online digital training provision. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1122277. [PMID: 37213359 PMCID: PMC10196367 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1122277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Digital exclusion, through lack of access and poor digital skills, can have an adverse impact on daily living. Not only did the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically impact the necessity of technology in our daily lives, but also reduced the availability of digital skills programmes. This study aimed to explore perceived facilitators and barriers of a digital skills programme that was delivered remotely (online) and to reflect on this form of training as a possible alternative to traditional face-to-face models. Methods Individual interviews were carried out with programme participants and the programme instructor. Results Two themes were generated from this data: (a) Creating a unique learning environment; and (b) Encouraging further learning. Discussion Barriers to digital delivery were evident, however, the individual and personalized delivery empowered participants within their own learning, supporting individuals to learn skills relevant to them and to continue their digital learning journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Wilson-Menzfeld
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Raven Gates
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Moreland
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Raw
- War Widows’ Association of Great Britain, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amy Johnson
- Department of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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Betlej A. Social Networks, New Technologies, and Wellbeing-An Interview Study on Factors Influencing Older Adults' Successful Ageing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5279. [PMID: 37047895 PMCID: PMC10094130 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20075279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Many factors are considered vital in supporting successful ageing and older adults' wellbeing. Whilst evidence exists around facilitating and hindering factors in the general use of various forms of institutional and family support and personal development-oriented education and/or new technologies, evidence is limited with regards to older people's motivations, expectations, and experiences surrounding ageing. Hence, in this study, the author used a qualitative explanatory method to interpret the factors influencing seniors' successful ageing. The author's focus was on how seniors experience ageing. The second issue was how they have been organizing life in old age. The third point concerned their expectations towards ageing now and in the future. Thirteen older adults (60+) were interviewed nationwide using a semi-structured scenario tool. Their objective was to give rich descriptions of their experiences of ageing. The interviews revealed the older adults' own experiences and enabled an understanding of their motivations, perceptions, moderators, and expectations around successful ageing. Based on the analysis of the qualitative data, the author developed three main themes, each with its own sub-themes: 1. Life satisfaction (transitioning to retirement, using coping strategies in adaptation to negative changes, reaching personal goals, leading a meaningful life); 2. Supportive environments (being independent but using temporary assistance from relatives and/or people close to oneself, living with family members (e.g., husband or wife, children, grandchildren), having access to health care system); 3. Social integration (social relations, social engagement, independence in using technological advancements). The main categories that emerged from the three themes were social networks, new technologies, and wellbeing. To analyze these issues, the author used a sociological approach. The theoretic explorations were embedded mainly in two methods: criticism of writing and the analytical and comparative one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Betlej
- Centre of Sociological Research on the Economy and the Internet, The Department of Economic and Digital Sociology, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Al. Racławickie 14, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
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Finnegan DJ, Campbell S. Tackling Loneliness and Isolation in Older Adults With Virtual Reality: How do We Move Forward? Gerontol Geriatr Med 2023; 9:23337214231186204. [PMID: 37465186 PMCID: PMC10350751 DOI: 10.1177/23337214231186204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Current trends in gerontology conceptualize Virtual Reality (VR) as a tool for rehabilitation, lauding its potential for cognitive rehabilitation or as an intervention to reduce cognitive function decline. However, we must take a critical stance and identify not just the potential positive impact, but also how things may go wrong without appropriate guidelines, and the need for careful design around the interaction affordances of the technology. We conducted co-discovery and co-design workshops involving expert stakeholders and older adults (N = 25) over a period of 6 months, involving practical activities including user personas and focus groups to understand the complexities of loneliness and identify possible solutions with VR. Based on our findings we focus our argument on two key factors in the conceptualization of loneliness: spaces, and activities which may take place within said spaces. We present our reconceptualization of VR as a tool for group activities instead of passive consumption of content and make suggestions to the community for reducing feelings of loneliness with VR.
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Understanding perspectives of older adults on the role of technology in the wider context of their social relationships. AGEING & SOCIETY 2022. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x2200085x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Technological interventions are increasingly popular methods of targeting and preventing loneliness in older adults. Research has identified various factors that influence the willingness and propensity of older adults to integrate technology into their social lives and the ways in which this may enhance their social connectedness. Given prevalence rates and negative outcomes associated with loneliness for this population, further research is warranted to clarify the mechanisms through which technological interventions may decrease loneliness. This study aimed to better understand the perspectives of older adults on the role of technology in their social relationships in later life. Four focus groups were conducted with 27 older adults, aged 65–80 years. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis, and results were validated via written participant feedback. Participants reported technology as one of many tools used to maintain their social relationships. Their choice to use technology for social interaction was influenced by their estimation of effort required, likely quality of the interaction, and the privacy and security provided. These factors were the same as those that influenced decisions to use other methods (e.g. face-to-face meetings). Based on the results, we recommend that loneliness interventions should be technology-agnostic and multifaceted, providing a wide range of tools that recognise the technological competencies of older adults and supporting different interaction types to meet the preferences of the individual.
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Murciano-Hueso A, Martín-Lucas J, Serrate González S, Torrijos Fincias P. Use and perception of gerontechnology: differences in a group of Spanish older adults. QUALITY IN AGEING AND OLDER ADULTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1108/qaoa-02-2022-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to understand the profile of use of gerontechnology in Spanish older adults considering their age group (60–70; 71–80 and over 80 years) and to discern whether groups of subjects with similar characteristics can be established to ascertain which factors are behind the profile of frequent gerontechnology use.
Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative study is presented to understand the profile of use of gerontechnology in Spanish older adults. The sample comprised 497 participants (aged between 60 and 94 years).
Findings
The results show that, even though most participants consider technology to be useful in their daily lives, there is still a lack of knowledge on how to use it, especially among older subjects. This highlights the importance of promoting technological cocreation initiatives such as senior living labs.
Research limitations/implications
Other researchers are encouraged to include the voices of older adults using gerontechnology in further studies.
Practical implications
If we want to increase the acceptance of technology by older adults, we must first let them take part in the design of the technologies they will use.
Social implications
This research provides promising data that should merit attention to contribute to the well-being and quality of life of older adults in a society where currently technology is a key part in every sphere of our daily life.
Originality/value
The value of this research lies in the implications of “aging in place” studies today.
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Gates JR, Wilson-Menzfeld G. What Role Does Geragogy Play in the Delivery of Digital Skills Programs for Middle and Older Age Adults? A Systematic Narrative Review. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1971-1980. [PMID: 35543169 PMCID: PMC9364233 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221091236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This systematic narrative review aimed to explore the implementation and delivery of
digital skills programs for middle and older age adults; and understand the presence of
adult learning theory (namely, geragogy/critical geragogy) in their delivery. A database
search was undertaken to examine international literature, published between 2010 and
2020. From 1,713 papers identified during the database searches, 17 papers were included.
Thematic synthesis was used to analyze the papers in this review. Themes were generated
relating to the implementation and delivery of digital skills programs: negative
perceptions of aging; the learning environment; and value of technology. The role of
geragogy/critical geragogy is not explicit in the delivery of digital skills programs in
this review but has an underlying thread of empowerment and embodies the ethos of these
learning theories to some extent. The findings of this review have been used to develop
recommendations for delivering digital skills to older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R Gates
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Gemma Wilson-Menzfeld
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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