As the use of mobile technology continues to grow in various segments of society, its potential impact on older adults has garnered significant attention. Recent research emphasizes the necessity of promoting mobile technology adoption among seniors, particularly those residing in rural communities where digital access and literacy may be lacking. Given this context, an innovative pilot study conducted by researchers at Florida Atlantic University’s Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing explores how an intergenerational initiative can aid older adults in embracing technology for health management.
In this study, researchers focused on a rural community known as the “Glades,” located at the southern tip of Lake Okeechobee in South Central Florida. This area is characterized by its tight-knit community and a population of older adults eager to maintain healthy lifestyles as they age in place. While many seniors are aware of the importance of tracking their health, access to tools such as fitness devices and smartwatches is often limited. Furthermore, a lack of familiarity with mobile technology presents a barrier to their effective use.
To address this challenge, the study involved collaboration between high school students, older adults, and local faith-based health educators. This intergenerational approach not only provided valuable cross-generational learning but also generated a supportive environment where older participants could confidently engage with technology under the guidance of youth who they trusted. With an age range of 53 to 84, the older cohort was motivated to enhance their daily health monitoring practices.
Central to the research methodology was the implementation of ecological momentary assessment (EMA) via smartwatches. Participants received health-related survey prompts four times daily, with questions focusing on their social interactions, physical activity levels, and mental engagement. This innovative approach allowed researchers to gather real-time data regarding the participants’ health behaviors while facilitating their interaction with technology.
The findings of the pilot study, which are set to be published in the esteemed journal Educational Gerontology, revealed noteworthy results. An impressive 91% of the older adults engaged with the smartwatch prompts, yielding a response rate of 77.8%. These engagement levels indicate not only a successful technology adoption but also a degree of comfort in their interactions with the smart devices. Surprisingly, factors such as health literacy, technology self-efficacy, self-reported cognitive status, educational background, age, and rural living had little to no influence on the response rates, further underscoring the potential for widespread technology use among older adults.
Moreover, the results highlighted the significant role of social engagement on the health of older adults. The study found a positive correlation between social contact and activities such as physical exertion and mental stimulation. This revelation stresses the vital importance of maintaining social connections for brain health among seniors, presenting a compelling narrative about the interconnected nature of social interaction, technology use, and overall well-being.
Each participant was required to wear the smartwatch for a duration of at least two weeks, receiving notifications through simultaneous ringtone and vibrations. This constant alert mechanism kept participants engaged and aware of their health monitoring tasks. High school students, aged 15-19, played a pivotal role in this research initiative, receiving tailored training to assist seniors in understanding and utilizing the smartwatches effectively. The training included setup assistance, charging tips, and guidance on responding to the prompts, fostering an environment of patience and empathy essential in such educational settings.
The researchers also employed conventional paper-and-pencil assessments to gauge cognition levels, health literacy, and technology competence. By correlating these metrics with smartwatch utilization, insights emerged regarding how varying education levels impacted participants’ experiences with the devices. Interestingly, those with more formal education expressed enjoyment and curiosity in monitoring their health through the smartwatches, while participants with less formal education required additional hands-on support to feel comfortable with the technology.
Feedback from participants revealed the profound impact of the study on both generations involved. Older adults reported that without the guidance of the high schoolers, they likely would have never considered using smartwatches or engaging with technology in this manner. Conversely, students gained critical skills, enhancing their understanding of technological instruction and the responsibilities that come with guiding others in using technology. They cultivated attributes such as patience, empathy, and an openness to learn from the experiences of seniors, thus fostering a reciprocal educational relationship.
The intergenerational interactions not only improved technological proficiency but sparked interest among the students regarding future careers in aging and health care. Through their involvement, they realized the significance of technology in health monitoring and were inspired to explore fields such as gerontechnology. This dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship between young and older adults highlights the power of shared knowledge and the potential for technology to bridge generational gaps while improving health outcomes.
Florida Atlantic University’s nursing-led research team has been dedicated to community-based participatory research over the past decade, collaborating with local gatekeepers and stakeholders to enhance care for older adults in under-resourced regions. This commitment drives a mission of elevating not only health monitoring practices but also the overall engagement within the community.
The pilot study receives support from the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, a testament to its importance and potential impact. The research not only stands as a blueprint for future studies but also offers a glimpse into how intergenerational collaboration and technology can converge to create healthier communities. As mobile technology continues to evolve, this initiative marks a significant step toward fostering inclusivity and access for older populations, ensuring they remain active participants in their health and wellness journeys.
In conclusion, as the world moves toward an increasingly digital future, the implications of this study extend far beyond a simple technological intervention. It represents a holistic approach that respects and harnesses the strength of community and intergenerational relationships, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and a deeper appreciation for the capabilities of modern technology among older adults.
Subject of Research: People
Article Title: Generations ‘Sync’ Up in Rural ‘Glades’ to Boost Technology Use for Health
News Publication Date: 6-Jan-2025
Web References: Florida Atlantic University
References: Educational Gerontology
Image Credits: Credit: Florida Atlantic University
Keywords: Health care, Mental health, Public health, Older adults, Scientific literacy, Social studies of science, Social surveys, High school students, Digital data, Learning processes
