Daily occupations and the use of technology for older adults in supported housing: An ethnographic study

Living in supported housing influences how older adults engage in daily occupations, including how they use technology. The aim of this research was to explore experiences of daily occupations and technology use among older adults living in supported housing.

An ethnographic methodological approach was applied, using reflexive thematic analysis across the dataset. Thirteen interviews, one focus group and ten observations were undertaken across two pseudonymised supported housing sites in the United Kingdom. Data consisted of transcribed interviews and focus group discussion, alongside researcher fieldnotes recorded using an observational framework.

Three themes and seven subthemes were identified. Theme one, Navigating the safety-autonomy paradox in supported housing, included two subthemes: Judgement and unspoken rules, and Fears heightened by lived experience. Theme two, Social dynamics and community in supported housing, included three subthemes: Family and friends, gatekeepers and bridges; The housekeeper, a consistent link; and Belonging through seeking like-minded others. Theme three, The evolving nature of technology, included two subthemes: A lifetime of change, and Navigating challenges and support.

Wide-ranging opportunities and challenges associated with technology use to support meaningful occupations were identified. The findings have implications for policy and practice, particularly in relation to residents' access to technology, digital support, safeguarding, and fraud awareness. Occupational therapists may have an important role in supported housing by supporting technology use that enhances residents' engagement in meaningful occupations.