gms | German Medical Science

Background: The world population is aging and there is a challenge to enable older people to live at home as independently and as long as possible. Current research shows that some technologies can improve the elderly’s quality of life [1]. In our research we have focused on older people with lower limb amputation (LLA).

Aim: To develop a system (within the EU project SAAM), that would support active aging in multi-modal coaching through social circles, direct information from potential users was needed regarding their perception of the use of technology.

Method: After completing a written questionnaire about the (potential) use of technology by themselves, we have interviewed live six older people with LLA about their lifestyles and the use of technology, visited their homes and observed them in doing some activities. The research was approved by Slovenian National Medical Ethic Committee.

Results/findings: We included 6 people with LLA (2 F, 4 M) with average age 69 (SD=8.0). All used television, radio and a standard mobile phone (two used smart phone) daily. One used a tablet. Regarding novel technologies, all of them would use a smart bracelet that would support them in fall- prevention and detection (to inform their children or neighbours to help them). Only half of them would agree the system to notify their loved ones about their loneliness. From the questionnaires and in-depth interviews, we found different answers between the use of novel technologies.

Discussion and conclusions: We realized that if we want to get realistic answers from older people about areas they do not master (e.g. novel technologies), a better way is to use live in-depth interview, since many people do not understand the questionnaires. If presented well (live), participants are eager to adopt simple new technologies.