Older individuals' experiences during the assistive technology device service delivery process

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Science
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Assistive technology devices (ATDs) are crucial for enabling older adults to age independently at home.
• Understanding user experiences in ATD service delivery is vital for improving support.
• Limited research exists on older individuals' perspectives throughout the ATD process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and understand the lived experiences of older individuals during the assistive technology device service delivery process.
• To identify key needs and challenges faced by older adults in accessing and utilizing ATDs.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving nine older individuals.
• Three in-depth interviews conducted per participant throughout the ATD service delivery.
• Analysis guided by a hermeneutical phenomenological approach.

Main Results:

• The ATD service delivery was perceived as an 'enigmatic journey'.
• Four emergent themes: 'hope and optimistic expectations', 'managing after delivery or needing additional help', 'having available help versus being abandoned', and 'taking charge or putting up'.
• Client expectations were often unarticulated to occupational therapists, leading to diverse experiences.

Conclusions:

• Occupational therapists must adopt an individualized approach throughout the ATD service delivery.
• Addressing unarticulated expectations is critical for successful ATD implementation.
• The delivery event itself is a pivotal moment for facilitating positive service outcomes.