Using a Proactive Telecare System to Support Independence, Health, and Well-Being in Older Adults: Feasibility...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Informatics
• Digital Health

Background:

• Proactive telecare services aim to prevent emergencies through outbound calls and information delivery.
• Regular engagement in telecare may enhance social connections and identify changing needs in older adults.
• Telecare systems promoting user participation can foster autonomy and self-management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability and feasibility of a proactive telecare intervention for community-dwelling older adults.
• To evaluate eligibility criteria and estimate effect sizes for health and well-being outcomes in preparation for a larger trial.

Main Methods:

• An 8-week randomized pre-post feasibility study using mixed methods (questionnaires, interviews).
• A daily OK button check-in system with well-being checks and emergency contact notification for non-responders.
• Standardized questionnaires measured quality of life, mental health, and loneliness.

Main Results:

• High retention (90.9%) but low expression of interest (17.6%), indicating recruitment challenges.
• Participants reported high acceptance, valuing reassurance and autonomy; socially isolated individuals felt less lonely.
• The intervention may suit those with limited independence, though some anxiety regarding technology use was noted.

Conclusions:

• Proactive telecare is feasible for community-dwelling older adults.
• Adjustments to recruitment and implementation strategies are necessary for future effectiveness trials.
• The system shows potential for enhancing well-being and independence in older populations.