Feasibility and Usage of a Virtual Assistant Device in Cognitively Impaired Homebound Older Adults.

ABSTRACT: Social technology in older adults can improve self-rated health; however, there can also be difficulties using it. Our study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and acceptance of virtual assistant device (VAD) use in cognitively impaired homebound older adults. 52 newly referred Meals on Wheels clients aged 60 and older were recruited for a three-phase study: 6 weeks of meals alone (control), followed by 6 weeks of meals+Alexa Echo Show 8 (AES8) basic usage, and lastly 6 weeks of meals+AES8 advanced usage. Technology acceptance with the AES8 was significantly higher by the end of the study and participants anecdotally enjoyed playing music, setting reminders, and accessing spiritual content. There were also associations with improvements in memory, depression, and gait speed, despite no spec

SUBMITTER: Nunez M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12241460 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature