Perceptions of Using Smart Speaker Technology for Improving the Health and Wellness of Older Adults Living in a Low-Income Community
Year: 2020
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: There is a growing interest in the usage of smart speakers in various settings with older adults for improved quality of life and health. Residents who live within a low-income housing development may benefit from the use of smart speaker technology for creating a more engaging and healthier lifestyle. Because technology acceptance is critical; this study aims to examine smart speaker acceptance among low-income senior housing residents. A cross-sectional survey (n=46) was conducted to assess smart speaker acceptance, perceived usefulness, perceived ease, and privacy concerns. Individuals were recruited through varying methodologies, including group information sessions, sign-up sheets, word of mouth, contact cards, and fliers. Descriptive analysis indicated study participants were 51% male; 63% Black/African American, and 87% completed a high school degree/GED or less. The technology survey results indicated that 66% were smartphone users, 51% had laptops, 87% heard “of an Echo Dot or Alexa,” and 89% reported that a reminder of medical appointments would be helpful. Also, 96% agreed it would be helpful to use the smart speaker if they had fallen, to alert someone. Technology can be helpful to older adults living in low-income environments. Most study participants reported that a smart speaker would be helpful in the case of a fall and that it would be helpful to use as a medication reminder system. This research can be used as guidelines for designing smart speaker-based health interventions for older adults and is an important step towards understanding the perception of smart speaker technology.
Authors: Brooke Saba McDowell, Jane Chung, J.R.J. Bennett
Language: English
Subfield: Geriatrics and Gerontology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W3017381935