Adoption of assistive technology in dementia care: a concept analysis for gerontological practice

Despite the growing use of assistive technologies in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia care, adoption remains fragmented because the existing technology acceptance models overlook the relational, cultural, and ethical dimensions. This concept analysis aims to clarify the defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of technology adoption in AD and dementia care.

Using Walker and Avant's concept analysis framework, 25 studies from 2015 to 2025 across gerontology, nursing, computer science, and rehabilitation disciplines were systematically reviewed. Data were synthesized to identify defining attributes, model and contrary cases, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents.

6 defining attributes of adoption were identified: perceived usefulness, ease of use, emotional resonance, trust and privacy, personalization, and cultural-ethical fit. Antecedents included caregiver mediation, user motivation, and facilitating conditions, while consequences ranged from enhanced well-being, autonomy, and caregiver relief to overreliance and ethical concerns. Empirical referents included validated scales such as the Technology Acceptance Model, System Usability Scale, and measures of trust, privacy, and social connectedness.

Technology adoption in AD and dementia care is a contextual and multidimensional process shaped by functionality as well as emotional, cultural, and ethical factors requiring codesign with users and caregivers, cultural responsiveness, and robust privacy protections. This conceptual framework advances understanding of adoption by providing practical guidance for developers, practitioners, and policymakers seeking to design, evaluate, and implement inclusive gerontechnologies.