Gerontechnology acceptance by elderly Hong Kong Chinese: a senior technology acceptance model (STAM)

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Sociology of Technology

Background:

• Understanding technology adoption among aging populations is crucial for promoting independent living.
• Existing technology acceptance models often overlook age-specific factors relevant to older adults.
• Gerontechnology holds significant potential for enhancing the quality of life for seniors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a Senior Technology Acceptance Model (STAM) tailored for older Hong Kong Chinese.
• To investigate the influence of individual attributes and facilitating conditions on gerontechnology acceptance.
• To compare the predictive power of STAM factors against traditional attitudinal factors.

Main Methods:

• Empirical testing of the STAM using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey.
• Sample comprised 1012 Hong Kong Chinese seniors aged 55 and above.
• Statistical analysis to determine variance explained and predictor significance.

Main Results:

• The STAM was strongly supported, explaining 68% of the variance in gerontechnology usage.
• Individual attributes (age, gender, education, self-efficacy, anxiety, health, ability) significantly predicted usage.
• Facilitating conditions also directly and explicitly affected technology acceptance.
• STAM factors were superior predictors of usage behavior compared to perceived usefulness and ease of use.

Conclusions:

• The STAM provides a robust framework for understanding gerontechnology acceptance in older adults.
• Personal and environmental factors are critical determinants of technology adoption among seniors.
• Future interventions should consider these factors to promote effective gerontechnology use.