Exploring Virtual Reality, Voice Interfaces, and Personality Traits in Technology Interaction Among Older Adults

Saturday, November 16, 2024

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM PST

Location: Room 617

CE: 1.5

Chair(s)

Jimmy Reyes, PhD, DNP, AGNP, RN, FRE (he/him/his)

Assistant Professor of Practice
Nursing and Public Health
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa, United States

Discussant(s)

Jimmy Reyes, PhD, DNP, AGNP, RN, FRE (he/him/his)

Assistant Professor of Practice
Nursing and Public Health
University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa, United States

Individual Symposium Abstract First Author(s)

BB

Brittany Burch, PhD, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor
Organizational Systems and Adult Health
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland, United States
Jane Chung, PhD, RN, FGSA (she/her/hers)

Associate Professor
Family and Community Health Nursing
Emory University School of Nursing
Atlanta, Georgia, United States
Marcia Shade, BS, PhD, RN (she/her/hers)

Assistant Professor
College of Nursing
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, Nebraska, United States

The proposed symposium highlights recent advances in addressing health disparities and technology adoption among older adults. Three noteworthy studies were undertaken by researchers spanning diverse career stages, thereby encompassing a breadth of expertise and viewpoints. The first study introduces MOTIVE, an immersive virtual exercise intervention targeting older adults who are low-income and living in urban settings. Results suggest acceptability of the intervention and support the scaling of the MOTIVE Study. Another study explores the usability of voice-assisted smart speakers among low-income minority older adults. While participants generally appreciate the hands-free interaction, challenges such as navigation difficulties and unintentional activations were noted. Customizable voice user interfaces are suggested to accommodate health conditions and speech abilities, essential for broader adoption. Contrary to stereotypes, smartphone and AI technology adoption among older adults is increasing. However, perceptions about AI may influence engagement. A pilot study investigating personality traits' impact on AI interaction reveals extraversion predicts engagement, while agreeableness and conscientiousness affect perceived usability. Integrating personality traits into technology research protocols is crucial for understanding and enhancing older adults' engagement. An integrated discussion, guided by the chair, will provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in technology adoption and usability within the context of gerontology. Collectively, these scholarly discussions will offer invaluable insights into innovative interventions and technological paradigms aimed at mitigating health disparities and enhancing the quality of life among older adults.

Learning Objectives:

After attending this session, participants will be able to describe virtual reality-based physical activity approaches.
After attending this session, participants will be able to examine user challenges and preferences for voice interface design on smart speakers.
After attending this session, participants will be able to discuss the integration of personality traits into research protocols involving technology interactions.

Presentations:

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM PST

Motivating Older Adults Through Immersive Virtual Exercise (MOTIVE)
Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Brittany Burch, PhD, MSN, RN – University of Maryland Baltimore
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM PST

User Challenges and Preferences for Voice Interface Design on Smart Speakers Among Low-Income Minority Older Adults
Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Jane Chung, PhD, RN, FGSA (she/her/hers) – Emory University School of Nursing
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM PST

Personality Bytes: Cracking the Code of Older Adults Engagement with AI
Individual Symposium Abstract First Author: Marcia Shade, BS, PhD, RN (she/her/hers) – University of Nebraska Medical Center