Factors for adoption of gerontechnology by community-dwelling older adults in the Western Cape
Stanton Ian Clark
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AbstractBackground: Despite the growing older adult population in South Africa, the adoption of
gerontechnology to support independent living remains under-researched.
Research aim: To explore the factors that can influence the acceptance and adoption of
Gerontechnology amongst the community-dwelling older adults in the Western Cape and thus gain an understanding of the older adults’ perceptions of using technology in aged environments to improve their quality of life.
Method: Semi-structured interviews based on the constructs of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2) were conducted in lower and middle-socioeconomic areas of the Western Cape. All participants were over the age of 60, comprising both males and females.
Results: The investigation revealed a multitude of positive and negative perceptions identified within an older adult ageing environment. Many participants identified affordability,complexity of technology, and accessibility as negative perceptions, as well as the perceived need, support, enjoyment, health monitoring capabilities, and social inclusivity as positive perceptions that influence accepting and adopting gerontechnology. Safety was an identified ambivalent perception, which, although not a strong perception, remains relevant to accepting and adopting technology.
Conclusion: By investing in technology-based solutions and supporting older adults on the
journey towards digital inclusion, society can empower them to live independently, engage
with their communities, and age with dignity and success. Further research is needed to
explore the long-term impacts of technology on the health and well-being of older adults,
as well as to develop innovative interventions that can bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to gerontechnology.Keywords: acceptance, ageing, digital divide, unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (utaut2) model, technology adoption
Stanton Ian Clark (2025). Factors for adoption of gerontechnology by community-dwelling older adults in the Western Cape. Gerontechnology, 24(1), 1-15
https://doi.org/10.4017/gt.2025.24.1.1188.12