gms | German Medical Science

Background and Purpose: Alerting devices can provide rapid assistance after a fall and thus reduce serious consequences and suffering. In spite of this obvious advantage, the acceptance and utilization rate in community-dwelling older people remains low. However, little is known about the reasons for non-usage. Therefore, this study explored the influencing factors of usage and non-usage of alerting devices in everyday life from the perspective of community-dwelling older people.

Methods: A qualitative study design with six semi-structured focus group discussions was conducted. A total of 31 community-dwelling older people, with a mean age of 82 years (range: 75–90) participated. Data was analysed using the Qualitative Analysis Guide of Leuven (QUAGOL), based on a Grounded Theory approach.

Results: The decision of older people regarding usage of an alerting device is characterized by a complex interplay between the desire for preservation of self-determination and a competent external appearance, along with the increasing internal acceptance of being in need of help. Key influencing factors are self-perceived health, living alone, readiness to enter the “strange” world of technology or one’s attitude regarding the finitude of life. Additionally, indispensable technical requirements are ease of use of the device and reliability of the alerting process.

Conclusions: Findings suggest that older people implicitly postpone the moment of initial device usage as far as possible into the future. Relatives and health professionals need to anticipate a longer process of negotiation, thereby recognizing self-determination and providing detailed information related to the alerting device and its impact on everyday life.