Safety for older adults using telecare: Perceptions of homecare professionals

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore homecare professionals' perceptions of safety related to the use of telecare by older adults. Design: An exploratory qualitative design was employed. Methods: Two focus group interviews with ten female homecare professionals (nine Registered Nurses and one occupational therapist) were carried out between June–December 2017. The participants were recruited from six community homecare services in two Norwegian municipalities. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The participants perceived that the use of telecare protects older adults against injury and insecurity by preventing harm and giving them a feeling of safety. However, they also stated that the use of telecare involves challenges that could lead to harm to older adults due to technological limitations and difficulties managing and understanding the technology. Although telecare can enhance safety, it is necessary to develop reliable technology and adapt it to the user's abilities, skills and resources.