Development of an assistive technology intervention for community older adults

To explore the use ofthe Ecological Validity Model as a guiding framework in the provision of a culturally-sensitive assistive technology (AT) intervention for community older people.

Twenty-seven Hispanic adultsaged 70 years and older, and four individuals with expertisein AT participated in a concurrent nested mixed method study where the quantitative method (content validity ratio exercise) was embedded in the dominant qualitative method (focus groups).

Findings informedthe development of the Assistive Technology Life Enhancement Program (ATLEP); an intervention consisting of seven modules addressing AT devices with culturally sensitive elements.

The Ecological Validity Model, as well as, the input from older adults were both effective methodological strategies in tailoring the ATLEP intervention to the needs and circumstances of community-living older people living in Puerto Rico.