Using Smart Speaker Technology for Health and Well-being in an Older Adult Population: Pre-Post Feasibility Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Health Technology

Background:

• Smart speaker technology offers potential benefits for older adults' health and well-being.
• Limited research exists on the acceptance and usage of smart speakers by older adults from lower socioeconomic positions (SEP).

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of smart speaker technology for enhancing the health and well-being of older adults with low socioeconomic status (SEP).

Main Methods:

• A 3-month study involving 39 older adults (65-85 years) in subsidized housing.
• Participants received a smart speaker, orientation, weekly support calls, and newsletters.
• Pre/post-tests assessed technology comfort, well-being, and speaker perceptions; process notes documented interactions and issues.

Main Results:

• 38% used the speaker daily, 38% used it several times weekly; 72% desired continued use.
• 62% found the speaker useful; 49% felt it provided a "voice to talk to," and 46% felt more connected.
• Common uses included weather, music, and news; health-related queries were less frequent. Initial query challenges were resolved with staff support.

Conclusions:

• Smart speaker technology holds potential for low-SEP older adults, especially for accessing music, news, and reminders.
• Future research should enhance upfront training on query formation.
• Developing and promoting specific health and well-being applications for this population is recommended.