Acceleration Factors for the Actualization of Behavioural Intentions among Elder Users of Assistive Technologies

Abstract

This study aims to identify factors that accelerate the actualization of technology usage behaviour once the behavioural intention is established in the minds of elders. Assistive technologies are the highlights of this study specifically those which are fitted on transportation vehicles that function to bring the elders to various locations from their base homes. This study closely referenced the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), which emphasizes the two variables Perceived Ease of Use and Perceived Usefulness of technologies which form the key determinants of TAM, and undertakes a Qualitative approach. This study gives evidence to the discovery that there are in existence various factors which accelerate the actualization of behavioural intention of the elders in using Assistive Technologies. Secondly the study also reveals that having mere intentions in the mind need not necessarily result in the actualization of usage of the Assistive Technologies. The findings of the study suggest a plethora of opportunities for subsequent studies both in the academia and on commercial ventures. Opportunities for further studies may lie in the scope of policy development and regulations for Assistive Technology provision and user participation, and similarly in the commercialization of specific Assistive Technologies for a wider and more economical adoption by the elders. The study further suggests that there are also opportunities in exploring the potential to bridge inter-party roles of the government and the private sector in germinating Assistive Technology products and services to address any known gaps in their usage by the elders.