Voices and views of informal caregivers: Investigating ambient assisted living technologies

Abstract

Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) technologies are on the rise in an attempt to ensure the sustainability of elderly care. Informal caregivers are an important stakeholder group for the successful adoption of AAL technologies. However, the number of studies that specifically address the attitudes, concerns and needs of this group is limited. With the aim to engage this underrepresented user group and to highlight their opinion and needs, we conducted in-depth interviews with 20 informal caregivers to evaluate different AAL solutions in the field of mobility and safety. While informal caregivers recognized the safety and mobility benefits and the increased peace of mind – privacy issues, the lack of human touch and an unfelt need for support formed major barriers towards adoption. Informal caregivers have an important influence on care decisions and should be closely involved when developing AAL tools.