Tracking and its Potential for Older Adults with Memory Concerns.

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Gerontology
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Research on older adults with memory concerns often prioritizes external perspectives on tracking.
• There is a need to understand the lived experiences and perceived potential of self-tracking from the users' viewpoint.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of self-tracking as perceived by individuals experiencing memory concerns.
• To understand the emotional landscape and influencing factors related to self-tracking in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• Conducted in-depth interviews with 29 participants reporting memory concerns.
• Utilized an affective writing approach to capture participants' emotional responses and perspectives.
• Employed qualitative analysis to identify themes and patterns in perceived potential.

Main Results:

• Identified a spectrum of potentials associated with self-tracking, linked to existing self-tracking behaviors.
• Observed varied emotional responses, including acceptance, resistance, anticipation, and aversion.
• Found that emotional motivations influence whether participants close off or keep self-tracking possibilities open.

Conclusions:

• The perceived potential of self-tracking for individuals with memory concerns is complex and emotionally driven.
• Individual potential is significantly shaped by personal routines, social relationships, and broader institutional/cultural contexts.
• Findings inform design for ambiguity and understanding the multifaceted experience of living with memory concerns.