Adoption and Use of a Smart Home Connected Care System by Older Adults: Mixed Methods Study

BACKGROUND: Smart home technologies are often promoted as a means to support independent living and alleviate pressure on health and care systems. However, adoption among older adults remains low, and little is known about how passive, ambient technologies are experienced over time. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the adoption of a Connected Care System among older adults and their caregivers in a real-world deployment, testing the applicability of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology model and identifying design considerations for future systems. METHODS: A mixed methods study was conducted with 91 older adults who used the Connected Care System for approximately 6 months. Quantitative survey data were analyzed using structural equation modeling to assess predictors of behavior intention. Thematic analysis of open-ended survey responses was used to explore participants' experiences and perceptions of the system. RESULTS: Perceived ease of use (β=0.075; P=.02) and facilitating conditions (β=0.232; P