Older Veteran Experiences of using Technology during a Multicomponent Telerehabilitation Program: A Convergent Mixed...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Health Behavior Change

Background:

• Physical activity is crucial for older adults, yet many U.S. veterans fall short of guidelines.
• Technology offers potential for behavior change, but mechanisms are understudied in older veterans.
• Telerehabilitation programs integrate technology to support health goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how older veterans engaged with technologies in a telerehabilitation program.
• To identify factors influencing technology engagement among older veterans.
• To understand the mechanisms of technology-assisted behavior change in this population.

Main Methods:

• Secondary analysis of a convergent mixed methods study.
• Included veterans aged ≥60 with chronic conditions and physical limitations.
• Quantitative and qualitative data analyzed comparing high vs. low technology engagement groups.

Main Results:

• Differences identified in satisfaction with virtual environments, self-efficacy, and perceptions of automated messaging (Annie) and activity monitors.
• Engagement varied across five domains: virtual environment satisfaction, coping self-efficacy, perceptions of "Annie", activity monitor use, and self-management skills.
• Key similarities and differences emerged between high and low technology engagement groups.

Conclusions:

• Findings inform the integration of technology in physical rehabilitation for older veterans.
• Understanding technology engagement mechanisms is vital for successful telerehabilitation.
• Further research is needed on factors influencing technology engagement in telerehabilitation.