Technology-assisted communication in older persons in a residential care facility in South Africa

Relocation to residential care facilities by older persons (60+) can decrease their social connectedness with their primary networks. The purpose of the study was to identify the use and acceptance of technology-assisted communication to increase social connectedness in older persons (N = 103) in an urban residential care facility in South Africa. The research design was a non-experimental quantitative descriptive survey using self-administered questionnaires based on the Technology Acceptance Model. All residents were included in the study. Perceived Ease of Use, Perceived Usefulness and Attitude scales were calculated and the Behavioural Intention for technology use was measured. Participants with the highest Behavioural Intention were residents in their first year of relocation, younger participants (60-74 years), divorced participants and participants with higher educational qualifications. Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness were low and were directly correlated. Perceived Ease of Use contributed significantly towards Attitudes concerning technology use. The overall Behavioural Intention for technology use was good (60/75) and the Technology Acceptance Model pathway was confirmed using Structural Equation Modelling. Video chat offered greatest appeal for future use.