Internet-of-Things Smart Home Technology to Support Aging-in-Place: Older Adults' Perceptions and Attitudes

The purpose of the current study was to examine older adults' perceptions of Internet-of-Things (IoT) smart home devices as part of a real-world feasibility study and describe what factors affect adoption of these technologies. A total of 37 community-dwelling older adults enrolled in the 2-month study. Participants chose among different IoT devices to be installed in their home for the study period. Semi-structured interviews to explore perceptions of the technology were conducted. Older adults have unique preferences for specific types of IoT devices and their functionalities. Similarly, there were different degrees of acceptability across devices. In general, older adults had a positive attitude toward IoT smart home technologies to support their health management. Emergency preparedness was a key benefit of IoT devices identified by many older adults. In addition, convenience of a voice interface provided by a smart speaker was appreciated among participants. Older adults seemed to weigh the benefits and actual need for having the devices against potential infringements on privacy. Nurses and system designers should consider ethical and practical challenges related to the interconnected services of the IoT domain for older adults. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 47 (4), 15–21.]