'Just how useful is it?': Disruptive user-focused technology design supporting older rural people to age in place

Abstract

Context and aims: Technology research and development is increasingly significant in health service delivery to older people in rural areas. Current services range from centrally based telehealth solutions to more localised applications. In all cases, technology's purpose is to connect and support older people to age in place. Older people and health professionals supporting them are often reluctant to engage with and trust technology solutions. This study considers whether an enhanced approach to technology design using third-wave human-computer interaction (HCI), communication strategies and user trust, will lead to developing technology with greater user uptake among older people and their care providers. Methods: A case study approach informed by pragmatics of HCI examines strategies for deeply understanding and clearly communicating users' health needs at the point of technology design. Data sources include semi-structured interviews with older people, health practitioners and user interface (UI) architects; observations of practice; identification and use of devices and applications. Data was analysed thematically. Findings: This paper reports preliminary findings. They suggest; - barriers to communication exist between users and UI architects within aged care environments; and - fractured communication transfer between the project cohorts at the point of IT design, leads to the development of specifications that do not reflect a person centred blueprint of user needs. In turn, resulting technology does not consistently meet user expectations. Where this occurs its use appears unsustainable. Innovative contribution to policy, practice and/or research: This study informs future telehealth technology design processes; the development of health policy relating to ageing rural populations; and the rollout of sustainable telehealth services at a national and international level.