Use of Handheld Technology by Older Adult Caregivers as Part of a Virtual Support Network

Shirley Ann Becker; Frank Webbe

1st International ICST Workshop on Connected Health: Using IT to Integrate the HealthCare Enterprise

Research Article

Use of Handheld Technology by Older Adult Caregivers as Part of a Virtual Support Network

Cite: BibTeX Plain Text

@INPROCEEDINGS{10.1109/PCTHEALTH.2006.361696,
    author={Shirley Ann Becker and Frank Webbe},
    title={Use of Handheld Technology by Older Adult Caregivers as Part of a Virtual Support Network},
    proceedings={1st International ICST Workshop on Connected Health: Using IT to Integrate the HealthCare Enterprise},
    publisher={IEEE},
    proceedings_a={CONNECTINGHEALTH},
    year={2007},
    month={5},
    keywords={Aging in Place Assistive Technology Coordinated Healthcare Systems Gerotechnology PocketPC Usability.},
    doi={10.1109/PCTHEALTH.2006.361696}
}

Shirley Ann Becker
Frank Webbe
Year: 2007
Use of Handheld Technology by Older Adult Caregivers as Part of a Virtual Support Network
CONNECTINGHEALTH
ICST
DOI: 10.1109/PCTHEALTH.2006.361696

Shirley Ann Becker¹^,*, Frank Webbe²^,*

1: Computer Sciences department and College of Business, Florida Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida, 32901, USA (321-674-8780; fax 321-674-7008)
2: Psychology department, Floridla Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Florida 32901 USA.

*Contact email: abecker@fit.edu, webbe@fit.edu

Abstract

We report here the development and initial test of a novel system for the virtual support of in-home family caregivers of Alzheimer's disease patients. Based upon information and communications technology, the system includes 1) a pocket computer for reminders, monitoring of events and behaviors, and information support; and 2) an integrated Web page which updates automatically with information from the pocket computer. Local and remote family and friends can track the inhome activities through the Weblog and provide virtual support to the caregiver. Through a series of interviews and laboratory tests we have developed and refined the proprietary interface which maximizes the usability of the pocket computer by older adults. The considerations that shaped the interface are presented, and the appearance and operation are described. When implemented, this system will facilitate aging in place for both caregiver and patient while also enhancing direct and virtual interactions with family and friends

Keywords: Aging in Place Assistive Technology Coordinated Healthcare Systems Gerotechnology PocketPC Usability.

Published: 2007-05-21
Publisher: IEEE
Modified: 2011-11-08

: http://dx.doi.org/10.1109/PCTHEALTH.2006.361696