1
|
Palmier C, Rigaud AS, Ogawa T, Wieching R, Dacunha S, Barbarossa F, Stara V, Bevilacqua R, Pino M. Identification of Ethical Issues and Practice Recommendations Regarding the Use of Robotic Coaching Solutions for Older Adults: Narrative Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e48126. [PMID: 38888953 PMCID: PMC11220435 DOI: 10.2196/48126] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Technological advances in robotics, artificial intelligence, cognitive algorithms, and internet-based coaches have contributed to the development of devices capable of responding to some of the challenges resulting from demographic aging. Numerous studies have explored the use of robotic coaching solutions (RCSs) for supporting healthy behaviors in older adults and have shown their benefits regarding the quality of life and functional independence of older adults at home. However, the use of RCSs by individuals who are potentially vulnerable raises many ethical questions. Establishing an ethical framework to guide the development, use, and evaluation practices regarding RCSs for older adults seems highly pertinent. OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper was to highlight the ethical issues related to the use of RCSs for health care purposes among older adults and draft recommendations for researchers and health care professionals interested in using RCSs for older adults. METHODS We conducted a narrative review of the literature to identify publications including an analysis of the ethical dimension and recommendations regarding the use of RCSs for older adults. We used a qualitative analysis methodology inspired by a Health Technology Assessment model. We included all article types such as theoretical papers, research studies, and reviews dealing with ethical issues or recommendations for the implementation of these RCSs in a general population, particularly among older adults, in the health care sector and published after 2011 in either English or French. The review was performed between August and December 2021 using the PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Explore, SpringerLink, and PsycINFO databases. Selected publications were analyzed using the European Network of Health Technology Assessment Core Model (version 3.0) around 5 ethical topics: benefit-harm balance, autonomy, privacy, justice and equity, and legislation. RESULTS In the 25 publications analyzed, the most cited ethical concerns were the risk of accidents, lack of reliability, loss of control, risk of deception, risk of social isolation, data confidentiality, and liability in case of safety problems. Recommendations included collecting the opinion of target users, collecting their consent, and training professionals in the use of RCSs. Proper data management, anonymization, and encryption appeared to be essential to protect RCS users' personal data. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis supports the interest in using RCSs for older adults because of their potential contribution to individuals' quality of life and well-being. This analysis highlights many ethical issues linked to the use of RCSs for health-related goals. Future studies should consider the organizational consequences of the implementation of RCSs and the influence of cultural and socioeconomic specificities of the context of experimentation. We suggest implementing a scalable ethical and regulatory framework to accompany the development and implementation of RCSs for various aspects related to the technology, individual, or legal aspects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cécilia Palmier
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Sophie Rigaud
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Toshimi Ogawa
- Smart-Aging Research Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Rainer Wieching
- Institute for New Media & Information Systems, University of Siegen, Siegen, Germany
| | - Sébastien Dacunha
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Federico Barbarossa
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani, Ancona, Italy
| | - Vera Stara
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberta Bevilacqua
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani, Ancona, Italy
| | - Maribel Pino
- Maladie d'Alzheimer, Université de Paris, Paris, France
- Service de Gériatrie 1 & 2, Hôpital Broca, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Choi NG, Marti CN, Choi BY. Associations of Depression/Anxiety with Technology Use, Discontinued Use, and Nonuse in Older Adults. Clin Gerontol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38372144 PMCID: PMC11331021 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2024.2318478] [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] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine correlates of the changes in technology use among older adults and the associations of depression/anxiety symptoms with technology use changes. METHODS We used the 2019-2021 U.S. National Health and Aging Trends Study (N = 3,063; age 70+). We fitted multinomial logistic regression models to examine: (1) correlates of never use and discontinued use versus use of email/texting and the internet during the 3-year study period; and (2) associations of past-month depression/anxiety symptoms in 2021 with use and discontinued use versus never use of email/texting and social network site (SNS). RESULTS The findings show age, socioeconomic, and health barriers to technology use. Email/texting and SNS use in 2021, compared to never use in all 3 years, was associated with a lower likelihood of moderate/severe depression/anxiety symptoms in 2021 (RRR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.37-0.81 for email/texting use; RRR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.33-0.97 for SNS use). Video calls with family/friends were not associated with depression/anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The findings expand the existing knowledge base regarding potential impact of technology use on mental health beyond the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS More concerted efforts are warranted to help older adults' technology uptake and continued use and to promote mental health benefits of technology use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Namkee G. Choi
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin
| | - C. Nathan Marti
- Steve Hicks School of Social Work, University of Texas at Austin
| | - Bryan Y. Choi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and BayHealth
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Trabert J, Schenk A, Golbach R, Püllen R, Schütze S. Family-centered delirium prevention and treatment using video calls: the FACE Delirium trial. Eur Geriatr Med 2023; 14:1353-1357. [PMID: 37647011 PMCID: PMC10754740 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-023-00854-2] [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: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In the FACE Delirium trial, we investigated the feasibility of a structured FAmily-CEntered delirium prevention and treatment during the corona pandemic. METHODS Patients hospitalized in a German geriatric medicine department were included in this single-center, prospective, single-arm feasibility study. Their relatives received a short training on delirium and volunteers or paid staff members facilitated video calls. The primary endpoint was reached when contact between patients and their relatives occurred on ≥ 80% of treatment days, either via video call or visit. RESULTS 38 patients were included (age 83.0 ± 5.9 years; 73.7% women). 76.3% reached the primary endpoint. Due to the pandemic, 99.3% of the contacts were video calls with a duration of 24.8 ± 16.3 min. CONCLUSION Family-centered delirium prevention and treatment using video calls is feasible among hospitalized geriatric patients. Daily implementation in clinical practice poses challenges and requires motivated and qualified staff.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Trabert
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, AGAPLESION Markus Hospital, Wilhelm-Epstein-Strasse 4, 60431, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Andreas Schenk
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, AGAPLESION Markus Hospital, Wilhelm-Epstein-Strasse 4, 60431, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Rejane Golbach
- Institute for Biostatistics and Mathematic Modelling, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Rupert Püllen
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, AGAPLESION Markus Hospital, Wilhelm-Epstein-Strasse 4, 60431, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sandra Schütze
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, AGAPLESION Markus Hospital, Wilhelm-Epstein-Strasse 4, 60431, Frankfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fanciulli A, Skorić MK, Leys F, Carneiro DR, Campese N, Calandra-Buonaura G, Camaradou J, Chiaro G, Cortelli P, Falup-Pecurariu C, Granata R, Guaraldi P, Helbok R, Hilz MJ, Iodice V, Jordan J, Kaal ECA, Kamondi A, Le Traon AP, Rocha I, Sellner J, Senard JM, Terkelsen A, Wenning GK, Moro E, Berger T, Thijs RD, Struhal W, Habek M. EFAS/EAN survey on the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on European clinical autonomic education and research. Clin Auton Res 2023; 33:777-790. [PMID: 37792127 PMCID: PMC10751256 DOI: 10.1007/s10286-023-00985-3] [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: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To understand the influence of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on clinical autonomic education and research in Europe. METHODS We invited 84 European autonomic centers to complete an online survey, recorded the pre-pandemic-to-pandemic percentage of junior participants in the annual congresses of the European Federation of Autonomic Societies (EFAS) and European Academy of Neurology (EAN) and the pre-pandemic-to-pandemic number of PubMed publications on neurological disorders. RESULTS Forty-six centers answered the survey (55%). Twenty-nine centers were involved in clinical autonomic education and experienced pandemic-related didactic interruptions for 9 (5; 9) months. Ninety percent (n = 26/29) of autonomic educational centers reported a negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education quality, and 93% (n = 27/29) established e-learning models. Both the 2020 joint EAN-EFAS virtual congress and the 2021 (virtual) and 2022 (hybrid) EFAS and EAN congresses marked higher percentages of junior participants than in 2019. Forty-one respondents (89%) were autonomic researchers, and 29 of them reported pandemic-related trial interruptions for 5 (2; 9) months. Since the pandemic begin, almost half of the respondents had less time for scientific writing. Likewise, the number of PubMed publications on autonomic topics showed the smallest increase compared with other neurological fields in 2020-2021 and the highest drop in 2022. Autonomic research centers that amended their trial protocols for telemedicine (38%, n = 16/41) maintained higher clinical caseloads during the first pandemic year. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial negative impact on European clinical autonomic education and research. At the same time, it promoted digitalization, favoring more equitable access to autonomic education and improved trial design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Fanciulli
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Magdalena Krbot Skorić
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Fabian Leys
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Diogo Reis Carneiro
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nicole Campese
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Giovanna Calandra-Buonaura
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jennifer Camaradou
- Patient Partner of the EAN Scientific Panel for Autonomic Nervous System Disorders, London, UK
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Giacomo Chiaro
- Autonomic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Pietro Cortelli
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Roberta Granata
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Pietro Guaraldi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Raimund Helbok
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria
| | - Max J Hilz
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Neurology, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Valeria Iodice
- Autonomic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK
- UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jens Jordan
- German Aerospace Center, Cologne, Germany
- Medical Faculty, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Evert C A Kaal
- Department of Neurology, Maasstad Ziekenhuis, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anita Kamondi
- Department of Neurology, National Institute of Mental Health, Neurology and Neurosurgery, Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Neurology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anne Pavy Le Traon
- Department of Neurology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Isabel Rocha
- Cardiovascular Autonomic Function Lab, Faculty of Medicine and CCUL, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Johann Sellner
- Landesklinikum Mistelbach-Gänserndorf, Mistelbach, Austria
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Jean Michel Senard
- Institut des Maladies Métaboliques et Cardiovasculaires, INSERM U 1297, Toulouse, France
| | - Astrid Terkelsen
- Department of Neurology, Aarhus University Hospital and Danish Pain Research Center, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Gregor K Wenning
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Elena Moro
- Division of Neurology, Grenoble Institute of Neuroscience, Grenoble Alpes University, CHU of Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - Thomas Berger
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Center for Clinical Neurosciences and Mental Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Roland D Thijs
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, The Netherlands
| | - Walter Struhal
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Tulln, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, Tulln, Austria
| | - Mario Habek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Centre, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Neurology, University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Zagreb, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Balki E, Holland C, Hayes N. Use and Acceptance of Digital Communication Technology by Older Adults for Social Connectedness During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Study. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e41535. [PMID: 37531187 PMCID: PMC10433026 DOI: 10.2196/41535] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Older adults are at higher risk for health issues, including mental health problems. This was especially apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic, where older adults were simultaneously more vulnerable to the disease and the mental health concerns created by social distancing. Subsequently, the use of digital communication technology (DCT) became a critical option for maintaining social connectedness in older adults. Prior to the pandemic, the low uptake and use of technology by older adults was an established problem, known as the digital divide. However, not much is known about how this may have changed as a result of the pandemic. OBJECTIVE This study aims to explore how older adults maintained social connectedness through DCT during the pandemic and to understand factors influencing the use and acceptance of DCT. METHODS A mixed methods explorative field study was set up, involving surveys and interviews of 25 community-dwelling older adults (65-88 years old) living in the United Kingdom. The surveys included the internet acceptance questionnaire (based on the Technology Acceptance Model [TAM]); COVID-19 dysfunctional anxiety was captured using the COVID-19 Anxiety Scale (CAS). Background information (demographics, use of technology) was gathered before conducting semistructured interviews. We hypothesized that CAS would affect constructs of TAM and that predictive constructs of TAM would have remained valid during the pandemic. We also posited that there would be unidentified themes outside TAM that impacted the acceptance and use of DCT. We used the quantitative data to guide the semistructured interviews, which were then analyzed through thematic analysis to identify additional themes. RESULTS Correlational analysis showed that CAS influences all constructs of TAM. We also saw that the predictive constructs of TAM, especially the perceived ease of use (PEU) and perceived usefulness (PU), remained valid during the pandemic. Common acceptance-influencing themes were encountered in both quantitative and qualitative analyses, with 3 matching the known constructs of TAM (PU, PEU, and behavioral intention). We identified 2 additional themes affecting acceptance, namely influence of the pandemic (situational context) and privacy and security concerns. DCT use (especially email and videoconferencing use) increased during the pandemic, but the results related to social networking sites were mixed. CONCLUSIONS The COVID-19 pandemic impacted technology acceptance and use by older adults, encouraging their use of certain DCT apps (email and videoconferencing apps, such as WhatsApp). These apps helped insulate them from adverse effects (social isolation and loneliness). Other social networking apps, however, exerted a negative influence, increasing anxiety and a general feeling of negativity. Future studies should maximize older adult agency related to design, privacy, security, and user requirements for development. We also recommend that when studying DCT acceptance for older adults, our additional identified themes should be considered alongside the existing TAM constructs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Balki
- Centre for Ageing and Research, Division of Health, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Carol Holland
- Centre for Ageing and Research, Division of Health, Lancaster University, Lancaster, United Kingdom
| | - Niall Hayes
- Nottingham Trent University, The Directorate, Notthingham, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gill P, Gutman G, Karbakhsh M, Beringer R, de Vries B. COVID-19 Pandemic Experiences across the Shelter-Care Continuum in Older Adults. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/26892618.2022.2153958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paneet Gill
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Gloria Gutman
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University at Harbour Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Mojgan Karbakhsh
- Gerontology Research Centre, Simon Fraser University at Harbour Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Robert Beringer
- School of Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, Canada
| | - Brian de Vries
- Gerontology Program, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Diehl C, Tavares R, Abreu T, Almeida AMP, Silva TE, Santinha G, Rocha NP, Seidel K, MacLachlan M, Silva AG, Ribeiro O. Perceptions on Extending the Use of Technology after the COVID-19 Pandemic Resolves: A Qualitative Study with Older Adults. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14152. [PMID: 36361030 PMCID: PMC9655749 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic of the last two years has affected the lives of many individuals, especially the most vulnerable and at-risk population groups, e.g., older adults. While social distancing and isolation are shown to be effective at decreasing the transmission of the virus, these actions have also increased loneliness and social isolation. To combat social distancing from family and friends, older adults have turned to technology for help. In the health sector, these individuals also had a variety of options that strengthened eHealth care services. This study analyzed the technologies used during the COVID-19 pandemic by a group of older people, as well as explored their expectations of use after the pandemic period. Qualitative and ethnographic interviews were conducted with 10 Portuguese older adults, and data were collected over a period of seven months between 2020 and 2021. The research demonstrated that the use of current and new technologies in the post-pandemic future is likely to be related to overcoming: (i) insecurity regarding privacy issues; (ii) difficulties in using technologies due to the level of use of digital technology; and (iii) the human distancing and impersonal consequences of using these technologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ceci Diehl
- Digital Media and Interaction Research Centre (DigiMedia), Department of Communication and Art, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Rita Tavares
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Taiane Abreu
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Margarida Pisco Almeida
- Digital Media and Interaction Research Centre (DigiMedia), Department of Communication and Art, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Telmo Eduardo Silva
- Digital Media and Interaction Research Centre (DigiMedia), Department of Communication and Art, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Santinha
- Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies (GOVCOPP), Department of Social, Political and Territorial Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Nelson Pacheco Rocha
- Institute of Electronics and Informatics Engineering of Aveiro (IEETA), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Katja Seidel
- ALL Institute, Department of Anthropology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Mac MacLachlan
- Assisting Living and Learning Institute (ALL Institute), Department of Psychology, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Anabela G. Silva
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), School of Health Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Oscar Ribeiro
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS@RISE), Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Murciano-Hueso A, Martín-García AV, Cardoso AP. Technology and Quality of Life of Older People in Times of COVID: A Qualitative Study on Their Changed Digital Profile. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:10459. [PMID: 36012093 PMCID: PMC9408618 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The situation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic brought negative consequences such as social isolation, limited access to routine health and social care services, and lack of self-esteem, especially for older people. In this context, technology took on an important role as the main means of communication and service delivery. The main objective of this study is to analyze the situation of the elderly and their access to technological resources in the time of COVID-19. Based on a qualitative methodology, 58 semi-structured interviews were conducted with people between 65 and 90 years old in Portugal. The results reveal specific difficulties in the use of this type of digital devices and a change in the digital use profile of this age group, characterized by more frequent use of digital devices such as smartphones, the incorporation of certain services such as video calls, and uses associated with communication and entertainment. This study shows that attitudes toward technology among the elderly should be studied further, and these results should be considered to develop and implement training programs specially designed for this age group in order to contribute to their well-being and quality of life.
Collapse
|
9
|
Barbosa MM, Paúl C, Teixeira L, Yanguas J, Afonso RM. From the drama of unoccupied time and isolation due to Covid-19's pandemic to the need for person-centered care at residential care facilities in Portugal. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022:1-10. [PMID: 35967500 PMCID: PMC9361953 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03499-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During the pandemic, restrictive measures were implemented at Portuguese residential care facilities (PRCF), such as isolating residents and ceasing collective activities. It is important to understand how PRCF are implementing activities that allow residents to occupy their time and fight isolation. As such, we aim to analyze whether: 1. new activities were implemented for residents (identifying which were carried out); 2. occupation activities were provided to isolated residents in their rooms (identifying which were carried out); 3. the implementation of activities is associated with variables like the amount of staff. This is an exploratory, quantitative, and cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire was sent by email to 2325 PRCF and entities were asked to share it with their workers. The study was also divulged on social networks. Data collection occurred between July 8th and October 18th, 2020. The study had 784 staff members participating and 90.8% reported that new activities were implemented at their facilities, predominantly videocalls. Concerning isolated residents most respondents (64.4%) stated that providing activities was impossible. Results showed that those PRCF that expanded teams had a higher percentage of new activities and activities with residents isolated in bedrooms. These results are alarming because while residents should have had more resources to cope with the pandemic, higher risks of unoccupied time and isolation existed, a dramatic situation for its potentially harmful consequences. Focusing on sanitary issues (and less on older adults) may reinforce traditional care models that had shown negative impacts before the pandemic. This highlights the need to evolve the care paradigm during and beyond the pandemic at PRCF: with Person-Centered Care as an option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Miguel Barbosa
- Health Sciences Research Centre of the University of Beira Interior (CICS-UBI) - Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
- CINTESIS@RISE, ICBAS, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Constança Paúl
- CINTESIS@RISE, ICBAS, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Laetitia Teixeira
- CINTESIS@RISE, ICBAS, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Rosa Marina Afonso
- CINTESIS@RISE, ICBAS, University of Porto, Rua Dr. Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
- Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, University of Beira Interior, Estrada do Sineiro, s/n, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Nursing Research on Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Based on Continuous Nursing Care. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:9855770. [PMID: 35832128 PMCID: PMC9273421 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9855770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. To explore the nursing research of prostatic hyperplasia based on continuous nursing and based on the combination of medical care and nursing.Methods. A prospective study of 96 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia admitted to our hospital from November 2019 to May 2021 was selected. According to the random number table method, they were divided into an observation group and a control group with 48 cases each. The control group used routine nursing and discharge guidance, and the observation group implemented continuous care based on the combination of medical care and nursing on the basis of the control group. The differences in the scores of quality of life, self-care ability, quality of life score, and sleep quality were compared between the two groups. Results. After 3 months of nursing, the quality of life scores (health status, psychology, social relationship, environment, physiology, and quality of life scores) of the observation group was higher than those of the control group (
). After 3 months of nursing, the quality of life scores of disease, physiology, society, psychology, and satisfaction of the observation group was significantly higher than those of the control group, which was statistically significant (
). After 3 months of nursing, the observation group’s sleep quality scores in all dimensions (time to fall asleep, sleep time, sleep quality, sleep efficiency, hypnotics, sleep disorders, and day disorders) were higher than those of the control group (
). After 3 months of nursing, the observation group’s self-care skill score, self-responsibility score, health knowledge score, and self-concept score were better than those of the control group (
). Conclusion. Continued nursing care based on the combination of medical and health care for prostate hyperplasia is beneficial to improve sleep quality and improve the patient’s quality of life score and self-care ability and provide certain references for clinical care of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Collapse
|
11
|
Rigaud AS, Li W, Pino M. Telepresence robot intervention to reduce loneliness and social isolation in older adults living at home (Project DOMIROB): Protocol for a clinical non-randomized study (Preprint). JMIR Res Protoc 2022; 11:e40528. [DOI: 10.2196/40528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
12
|
Health Equity Implications of the COVID-19 Lockdown and Visitation Strategies in Long-Term Care Homes in Ontario: A Mixed Method Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19074275. [PMID: 35409954 PMCID: PMC8998692 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19074275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively impacted the lives and well-being of long-term care home residents. This mixed-method study examined the health equity implications of the COVID-19 lockdown and visitation strategies in long-term care homes in Ontario. We recruited long-term care home residents, their family members and designated caregivers, as well as healthcare workers from 235 homes in Ontario, Canada. We used online surveys and virtual interviews to assess the priority, feasibility, and acceptability of visitation strategies, and to explore the lived experiences of participants under the lockdown and thereafter. A total of n = 201 participants completed a survey and a purposive sample of n = 15 long-term care home residents and their family members completed an interview. The initial lockdown deteriorated residents’ physical, mental, and cognitive well-being, and disrupted family and community ties. Transitional visitation strategies, such as virtual visits, were criticised for lack of emotional value and limited feasibility. Designated caregiver programs emerged as a prioritised and highly acceptable strategy, one that residents and family members demanded continuous and unconditional access to. Our findings suggest a series of equity implications that highlight a person-centred approach to visitation strategies and promote emotional connection between residents and their loved ones.
Collapse
|