Exploring the fit between older adults and smartphone use to inform design and practical application

Abstract

Purpose Smartphones have become a valuable tool on which many rely to complete a myriad of tasks on a daily basis and frequently considered as possible tools to support the daily occupations of older adults. While the capabilities of smartphones and available applications appear endless, older adults may not fully understand the mobile phone they are using or understand how smartphones might be used to support activities of daily living. In order to effectively incorporate the use of smartphone technology to support the daily needs of the aging population, a greater understanding of older adults' acceptance and use of smartphone technology is needed. The purpose of this study was to explore older adults' acceptance and use of smartphone technology and check for redundancy of Walker et al.'s preliminary model'. Method Investigators utilized a focus group design to collect qualitative data on older adult acceptance and use of smartphone technology. Participants included eight older adults aged 60-78 who were selected through purposive, convenience, and nominative sampling. Verbatim transcription was analyzed using a constant comparative approach. Results & Discussion Findings of this study were consistent with Walker et al.'s preliminary study. Five factors contributed to participants' ability to successfully operate their smartphone: physical characteristics of the device, past experience, effort expectancy, available resources, and self-efficacy. Overall, smartphone use was collectively explained by the constructs of ability, attitude, perceived need, and social influence. In conclusion, this model may be used to thoroughly examine and consider the fit between older adults, smartphones, and related applications in order to provide consumer-centered recommendations to effectively support the performance of older adults using smartphone technology. Further, this model may also be used to inform the future design of smartphone technology and related applications aimed to support the needs of older adult consumers.