PHASE TWO
Building on my initial explorations in Phase 1, Phase 2 of my project solidified my interest in designing technology-driven interventions to facilitate mental health dialogue among the elderly. Through an in-depth review of current research and a reassessment of my approaches based on new insights, I gained a clearer understanding of how telehealth can address key barriers while creating meaningful opportunities for connection.
Research Insights
Internet Usage and Mental Health: I learned the impact of internet use on mental health, showing significant benefits in reducing depression but not necessarily improving life satisfaction. This nuanced outcome invited me to think critically about what truly enriches life at an older age (Study 2).
Behavioral Adaptation to Technology: I learned that while elderly individuals are often slower to adopt new technologies, factors such as ease of use, usefulness, social influence, and training improve their acceptance rates (Study 3).
Telehealth Adoption: Research revealed that openness to change enhances the adoption of telehealth among the elderly, suggesting that my intervention needs to not only introduce technology but also create an environment that supports its acceptance (Study 3).
Also, I learned about the potential of remote care technologies to significantly help symptoms of depression and anxiety among the elderly. These findings support the idea that, with proper introduction and support, technological solutions can be highly beneficial (Study 6).
Impact of Social Isolation: The pandemic led to the role of technology in reducing isolation among the elderly, as studies from COVID-19 lockdowns in Australia proved its effectiveness in keeping older adults connected with their families and communities. These findings have helped shape the emphasis on social features in my tech-based solutions, aligning with my intervention’s goal of fostering a sense of community through meaningful social interactions (Study 4).
Cultural and Socioeconomic Factors: The impact of internet use on urban versus rural areas explains the role of environmental and cultural factors in technology adoption. This insight supports the importance of designing interventions that are flexible and adaptable to diverse living conditions and cultural backgrounds (Study 1).
Guiding Questions
Reflecting on these insights, I have formulated new guiding questions to steer my research deeper:
How can we tailor technological interventions to be more personally relevant to diverse elderly populations?
What strategies can increase the perceived usefulness of digital tools among the elderly?
How do different cultural contexts within the elderly community affect the adoption of mental health dialogues?
Stakeholders
• Elderly Individuals
• Healthcare Providers
• Technology Developers
• Families of Elderly Populations
• Insurance Companies
Revised Mess Map