Senior populations' attitude towards virtual assistants: A study using extended technology acceptance model

Area of Science:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Gerontology
• Sociology

Background:

• Interactive virtual assistants offer cost-effective solutions for social support and loneliness management in older adults.
• Enhancing virtual assistant features is crucial, but understanding human interaction patterns is vital for adoption.
• Increasing social acceptance among the elderly is a specific goal for virtual assistant development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gauge the popularity and acceptance of virtual assistants within the elderly population.
• To investigate the factors influencing the adoption of virtual assistants by older adults.
• To analyze the role of trust, perceived reliability, and emotional comfort in virtual assistant acceptance.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted among the elderly population, comprising 20 questions.
• 104 responses were collected to analyze virtual assistant popularity.
• Seven hypotheses based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) parameters were statistically analyzed.

Main Results:

• The survey indicated a positive reception and potential for virtual assistants among older adults.
• Statistical analysis supported the formulated hypotheses regarding Technology Acceptance Model parameters.
• Trust, perceived reliability, and emotional comfort were identified as significant factors influencing acceptance.

Conclusions:

• Virtual assistants show significant promise in enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
• Understanding and fostering trust and emotional comfort are critical for the successful long-term adoption of virtual assistants by the elderly.
• The study provides insights into the social acceptance of technology among aging populations.