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Older adults experiences of learning to use tablet computers: a mixed methods study
Vaportzis, Ria Clausen, M.G. Gow, A.J.
Vaportzis, Ria
Clausen, M.G.
Gow, A.J.
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Publication Date
2018-09
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© 2018 Vaportzis, Giatsi Clausen and Gow. This is an Open Access article distributed under the Creative Commons CC-BY license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
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openAccess
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2018-08-15
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Abstract
Background: We wanted to understand older adults� experiences of learning how to use a tablet computer in the context of an intervention trial, including what they found helpful or unhelpful about the tablet training, to guide future intervention studies. Methods: This mixed?methods study used questionnaire and focus group approaches. Forty?three participants aged between 65 and 76 years from the �Tablet for Healthy Ageing� study (22 in the intervention group and 21 controls) completed a post?intervention tablet experience questionnaire. Those who completed the tablet training intervention were invited to share their experiences of engaging with new technology in post?intervention focus groups. We conducted three separate focus groups with 14 healthy older adults (10 females). Results: Questionnaire data suggested that the overall experience of the 22 participants who took part in the tablet training intervention was positive. The majority reported that it was likely or very likely they would use a tablet in the future. Focus group themes related to perceptions of the tablet training, the experience of using tablets and suggestions for future studies. Participants mentioned increased confidence, enjoyment of being part of a social group and downloading applications, though they also felt challenged at times. Reported advantages of using tablets included the ability to keep in touch with family and friends, motivation to contribute to the community and the potential for tablets to improve mental abilities and overall health and wellbeing. Participants also suggested improvements to tablet features and recommended smaller classes for future training studies. Conclusion: Our findings have implications for the development of interventions using new technologies that may promote the health and wellbeing of older adults.
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Vaportzis E, Clausen MG and Gow AJ (2018) Older adults experiences of learning to use tablet computers: a mixed methods study. Frontiers in Psychology. 9: 1631.
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