STAM-IC: an extended senior technology acceptance model for intelligent companion products towards elderly-oriented design

Rapid population aging and advances in AI have accelerated the adoption of intelligent companion products, yet elderly users often face cognitive and operational barriers, which limits real-world effectiveness. Existing acceptance models do not sufficiently capture product-level design factors critical for elderly care. This study proposes the Senior Technology Acceptance Model for Intelligent Companions (STAM-IC), which extends TAM by integrating elderly-specific external and internal factors. Based on a literature review, grounded interviews, and a survey of 319 elderly participants analyzed using structural equation modelling, the model was developed and validated. Findings identify eight external factors (Functional Initiative, Additional Utility Function, Personified Appearance, Apparent Curvature, Color Contrast, Material Hardness, Interaction Directness, and Interaction Richness), and five internal factors (perceived safety, usefulness, ease of use, enjoyment and behavioural intention). The results reveal that elderly acceptance is anchored in safety, enabled by simplicity, and ultimately driven by enjoyment, whereas perceived usefulness acts as a cognitive bridge rather than a decisive determinant. Theoretically, STAM-IC advances technology acceptance research by linking design attributes to cognitive and affective pathways, extending TAM beyond its utilitarian roots. Practically, it provides actionable guidelines for elderly-centered design, providing a structured pathway to enhance adoption and enrich user experience.