Understanding Older Adults’ Technology Use Preferences and Needs From a Triangular Perspective: Qualitative Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Technology use is increasingly integrated into daily life, including among older adults, whose adoption and engagement with technology warrant closer examination. According to the matching person and technology model, technology adoption is more likely when a person's preferences and needs align with a device's functions and features, as well as the environment in which it is used. However, factors such as age-related changes, evolving preferences, and the rapid pace of digital transformation complicate this process. Additionally, older adults often rely on support from family members and health professionals, yet their perspectives remain largely unexplored. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the daily technology use of older adults in Israel from a triangle perspective, incorporating the views of older adults, family members, and health professionals. It explored preferred technology-based activities, device features, the shift from in-person to technology-based interactions, and responses to mismatches between preferences, device characteristics, and social support. METHODS: Nine web-based focus groups, each with 6 to 7 participants, were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic (February 2021 to July 2022). Participants included 20 healthy, independent older adults (10 women, aged 66-80 years), 19 family members (children and grandchildren, aged 21-55 years), and 20 health professionals with at least 5 years of experience working with older adults. RESULTS: Older adults demonstrated diverse preferences for technology use in daily activities, shaped by urgency, significance, and device characteristics. This perspective was reinforced by family members and health professionals, who highlighted the importance of distinguishing between technology types based on their users and features. Additionally, older adults expressed mixed views on shifting from in-person interactions to digital alternatives, while family members and health professionals emphasized the importance of social interaction for well-being. Finally, older adults described significant emotional challenges when navigating technology. Family members and health professionals identified key contributors, including the gap between perceived and actual technological abilities, generational differences in digital exposure, and cognitive demands associated with technology use. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the significant variability in older adults' daily activity preferences, which strongly influences their technology use. It suggests shifting the focus from technology to its practical application in meeting individual needs. In this context, it is important to consider the need for social interactions. Addressing social interaction needs and emotional challenges is crucial, as unmet technological needs can lead to frustration and disengagement. These insights can inform strategies to enhance technology use among older adults by aligning technology design and support systems with their preferences and needs.

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