Understanding experiences and expectations from active, independent older women in Chile towards technologies to manage their health

Abstract

Mobile technology holds promise for supporting treatment and care processes for older adults. However, we know little about their views and experience when they use technological tools to manage their health, especially when it comes to underrepresented groups of older adults, such as women in Chile. There is a need to improve understanding about how they incorporate technology into their daily lives, especially when used to manage their health. This qualitative study aimed to examine the experiences, opinions, and expectations of independent, active Chilean older women about technological tools for managing their health. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 12 Chilean older adults (11 women, 1 man). Participants were asked open-ended questions about their daily living activities, physical fitness, and the technology used for their health care. In a qualitative inductive analysis based on the grounded theory methodology, three main themes were identified: 1) concerns about technology, 2) health management using technology, and 3) wishes and expectations on health control using technology. Although the participating older women had a positive attitude towards technology, they are unable to control, manage, or understand for themselves the workings and data provided by health technology. Misinterpreting the data, or carrying around too many medical-looking devices, may remind users of existing illnesses, making them feel as though they are more serious, scaring them and negatively impacting their use. Future technologies for the monitoring and self-management of older women’s health should help users feel competent in their use, building on their strengths. These technologies should also be configurable, allowing users to choose the level of feedback they receive.