Introduction of telecare mediated home care services pushes forward a re-delegation of the cooperative care work

Abstract

In this paper, we apply activity theory as a theoretical framework to study conventional home care service practice versus telecare as a means for delivery of home care services. In doing so, we translate home care services into work activities to explore the cooperative nature between the nurses and the elderly care receivers. Findings indicate changes in how the cooperative care work are distributed when moving from conventional home care services to telecare mediated home care services. In our work, we conclude that introduction of new work practice results in increased delegation of responsibility and practical selfcare activities to the elderly care receivers. Thus, telecare such as video consultation in the home is not appropriate for all elders. Nevertheless are those who mastery these responsibilities, rewarded with increased flexibility in their daily life activities since the delivery of services is more predictable and timely.