Effectiveness of Gerontechnology Empowerment Program (GEP) on Awareness and Usage of Mobile Applications among Senior Citizens for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs) – Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)

Abstract

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs) are crucial for seniors to live independently. Advancements in healthcare and technology will increase the senior population and life expectancy globally. The iADL difficulties impact senior citizens' quality of life. Mobile apps can assist seniors, but many require help due to limited awareness. Lack of awareness is a barrier to smartphone and app usage. Existing literature mainly covers healthcare and app design, needing more focus on seniors' iADL apps.

The study objectives encompass two main aspects: firstly, to evaluate the awareness, usage, and factors influencing the utilization of mobile applications among senior citizens for iADLs, and secondly, to create and assess the effectiveness of a Gerontechnology Empowerment Program (GEP) for the senior citizens on awareness and usage of mobile applications for iADLs.

This research employs a quantitative approach divided into two distinct phases. In Phase I, we conduct a descriptive survey to assess the level of awareness, usage and identify the factors that influence the use of mobile applications among senior citizens for iADLs. To ensure clarity and comprehension among participants, we provide them with a subject information sheet in both Kannada and English. The data collected during this phase will enable us to gain insights into the awareness levels, usage patterns, and factors that shape senior citizens' utilization of mobile applications for iADLs. This information serves as the foundation for designing the GEP planned next step. In Phase II, we will employ a cluster randomization method to select senior citizens aged 60 to 75 in Udupi district, Karnataka State, India, who are active smartphone users. These participants will be divided into two groups: the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group will undergo the GEP. To assess the effectiveness of this program, we will measure the outcomes before and after its implementation using the same assessment tools employed in Phase I. Ethics and Dissemination The research protocol, informed consent forms, and associated documentation received approval from Institutional Ethics Committees (IEC: 214/ 2020).

Phase 1 data collection is expected to be completed by November 2023, and Phase 2 is scheduled to commence in the upcoming months following the completion of the cluster randomization process. Phase 1 and 2 findings will be thoroughly analyzed and discussed in the main paper, which we intend to submit to a high-quality peer-reviewed journal for publication.

Upon the successful testing of the GEP, it can be recommended that welfare departments encourage senior citizens to utilize mobile applications for iADLs. Additionally, a mobile application training program could be established to provide training and support to senior citizens in using these applications.

Clinical Trials Registry - India (CTRI/2020/09/027977).