A home-based individualized information communication technology training program for older adults: a demonstration of effectiveness and value

Abstract

Purpose: To demonstrate the effectiveness and value of a home-based information communication technology (ICT) training program for older adults. Methods: Thirteen older adults were provided in-home ICT training by graduate occupational therapy students using an iPad. The breadth and frequency of ICT use, perspectives on technology, and perceived independence were recorded at baseline, during the 3-month training and at follow-up, along with an end-of-study questionnaire. Non-parametric Friedman analysis was conducted to verify trends in the outcome measures. The qualitative data were examined by content analysis. Results: Participants’ breadth of ICT activities showed a significant trend across 6 months. Leisure accounted for the significant increase, while health management and social connections activities increased modestly. A positive trend in participants’ perspectives on technology was evident along with a marginal increase in perceived independence. Participants’ perspectives were thematically categorized as technology experiences, interactions with coach, training approach, and specific activities. As reflection of the training program’s value, 12 of the 13 participants took ownership of the iPad at the end of the study. Conclusion: Building capacity of older adults to utilize the multifaceted potential of ICT is critical in addressing declines in health, impending disabilities, and social isolation.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• A one-on-one home-based individualized information communication technology (ICT) training program for older adults could result in a progressive increase in the breadth of online activities carried out by them.

• Specifically, the increase in their usage of ICT could be expected in leisure-based online activities.

• Individualized training programs designed based on needs, priorities, and learning style of older adults could have a positive impact on their technological perspectives and intrinsic motivation to adopt ICT.

• Aging
• computer training
• information communication technology
• social networking

Acknowledgements

The researchers would like to express their gratitude to the New Hampshire ServiceLink for support provided with recruitment of the participants. A special thanks to 13 occupational therapy students from the 2013 Graduate Program at the University of New Hampshire who actively engaged in this study as “personal coaches” for the participants and contributed to its successful completion. Ms. Kelly Hollingworth, a graduate occupational therapy student, provided vital logistic support for the study.

Declaration of interest

Funding for this research study was provided by the UP-2-NIH program at the University of New Hampshire. The authors report no financial conflicts of interest with this research.