Authors (including presenting author) :
Jim CH(1), Sit LMK(1), Fan SHU(1), Tang LM(1), Yip KY(1), Li PM (1), Chan WH(1), Chow CH(1), Tong CKA(1), Chow WK (1), Ip YY(1), Tse KY(1), So YH(1), Ho CM(1)
Affiliation :
(1) Occupational Therapy Department, Tai Po Hospital
Introduction :
Gerontechnology empowers patients’ independent living, reduces institutional care, and alleviates caregiver burden. However, its adoption faces barriers, including limited awareness, accessibility issues and lack of support. To address these gaps, Tech-to-Care Gerontechnology Promotion Project was developed to enhance patients’ self-care and community-based care.
Objectives :
1) To enhance participants’ knowledge of and acceptance towards gerontechnology 2) To promote patients’ quality and life and reduce caregiver burden through adoption of gerontechnology
Methodology :
The project included three phases: 1) product hub and resource library establishment, 2) pilot education program and service need identification, and 3) service delivery involving product matching, education, trial use (demo and loan services), and purchase facilitation. Participants included physical and non-physical patients and their caregivers from Tai Po Hospital. Pre- and post-service surveys were conducted to evaluate changes in self-perceived gerontechnology knowledge and acceptance, along with a service satisfaction survey, using an 11-point (0-10) scale. Feedback on product purchase and use was collected during follow-ups.
Result & Outcome :
Phase 3 service delivery began in December 2023. By December 2024, 287 participants (270 patients and 17 caregivers; mean age: 61 years) were recruited. 82% of them received both education and trial use services, while 18% received only education. High satisfaction levels (rating 7 or above) were reported by 78% and 63% of participants who completed satisfaction survey for education and trial use services, respectively. Statistical tests indicated significant improvements in self-perceived knowledge of gerontechnology (p <.001), with greater improvement noted among those receiving both services (p = <.001). For acceptance, participants demonstrated increased readiness for product use (p <.001), regardless of service type. However, only 9% accessed purchase facilitation and ultimate product purchase remained limited. Challenges included financial considerations, unsuitable functionality, perceived lack of relevance, and caregiver reliance. For those who purchased products, positive feedback highlighted improvements in patients’ self-care and home safety after use. In conclusion, the service, especially trial use, effectively promoted gerontechnology. However, further enhancements were needed to address the identified challenges, such as exploring more affordable and compatible product options and targeting promotions that emphasized the benefits of gerontechnology for patients and caregivers.
