Older women's perceptions of a programmable video monitoring system at home : a pilot study

Abstract

Introduction： Developing technologies to help older adults to age in place is paramount in coping with health challenges related to the ageing population. Camera-based technologies are efficient for home monitoring; however, few studies exist of users’ perceptions of these technologies. To monitor night walks and the person-environment interaction, a programmable video monitoring system (VS) was implemented at home. This study explores users’ perceptions of this VS. Methods： For this multiple case study, six older women were recruited according to these criteria: (1) ≥65 years old; (2) ≥ one fall within the last 12 months; (3) woke up at night to go to the toilet; (4) lived alone. The VS was implemented for seven nights. Perceptions were explored with semi-structured interviews before and after the experiment. Data were analysed qualitatively following a cross-case method. Results Participants had positive opinions of the VS before the implementation; they appreciated three features: (1) the programmable movement detection during chosen time slots, respecting privacy; (2) the LED indicating the recording; (3) the small cameras. After the experiment, participants reported positive experiences, though some expressed some discomfort. During the experiment, participants’ perceptions changed because they got used to the system. Conclusion： Older women’s favourable opinion of programmable VS supports the use of ambient technologies to facilitate ageing in place. Future research should involve larger samples to confirm the possibility of using programmable VS with community-dwelling older adults.