Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Ph.D.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Degree Granting Department

School of Aging Studies

Major Professor

Debra Dobbs, Ph.D.

Co-Major Professor

Carla VandeWeerd, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Gizem Hueluer, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Lindsay Peterson, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Ali Yalcin, Ph.D.

Keywords

artificial intelligence (AI), assisted living, older adults, remote patient monitoring (RPM), technology, wearables

Abstract

This dissertation consists of three academic papers followed by a chapter discussing the implications of the findings. This dissertation aims to better understand how technologies can promote older adults' (55 years or age or and older) desires to maintain, improve, and understand their health and wellness. The primary objective is to examine how three different technological modalities can inform proactive interventions at various life stages, aiming to promote healthy aging and alleviate age-related health issues by integrating disease prevention strategies within the Lifespan Theory of Aging.

Each academic paper came from an independent data source. The first paper used audio recordings/transcripts from focus groups (n=6) conducted with older adults (N=36). The second paper utilized device usage data and self-reported survey responses from older adults (N=49) participating in a home-based smart device research program. The third paper used publicly available data extracted from evaluating state-sponsored assisted living websites. Focus groups conducted for paper one employed thematic analysis strategies outlined by (Creswell & Poth, 2016). Paper two utilized t-tests, chi-square and ANCOVA models to assess the relationship between self-reported health assessments and adherence to two different modalities of remote patient monitoring technologies. Paper three utilized descriptive statistics to understand the presence of key informational elements provided on state websites.

Results from the focus group discussions revealed that older adults are receptive to innovative technologies, particularly when the subsequent data feels personalized and easily understandable. Furthermore, findings suggest that passive and easy-to-use remote patient monitoring may offer greater potential health benefits, such as increased cardiovascular monitoring for older adults. Additionally, the analysis of state-sponsored assisted living websites highlighted the importance of easy-to-understand, accessible, and transparent information for older adults to make informed decisions about assisted living communities, potentially aiding in tertiary disease prevention efforts. These insights underscore the significance of integrating technology into proactive public health initiatives, policy-making decisions, and healthcare practices aligned with the Lifespan Theory of Aging to promote healthy aging and address age-related health issues effectively.

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