Experiences of Older People using Videoconferencing in Home Care - A Case Study of Telecare from Finland

摘要

The objective of this qualitative case study is to explore home care patients' perceptions of a videoconference system as part of their home care. The study also aims to examine how the possibility to form a video connection with nursing staff affects home care patients' feelings of loneliness and security. Seven home care patients' perceptions of the used videoconference system were surveyed using semi-structured interviews with themes based on technology acceptance literature. The gathered research material was analyzed thematically. The study is part of a larger KOVI project. The interviewed home care patients felt they had a natural conversation through the videoconference device. The individuals' views of the usefulness of videoconference technology seemed to be an essential factor in the acceptance and use of technology. The use of the videoconference device was not considered particularly challenging, so the ease of the use of technology and learning to use the device were not considered a major challenge, not even for the elderly. The customers were worried about the privacy because of the installed cameras, but considered the safety the system brings more important. The lack of previous knowledge concerning technology, however, was noted in situations that deviated from common usage of the equipment. Guidance and instructions in difficult situations and maintenance of the device were deemed important.