Wearable Technologies: Acceptance Model for Smartwatch Adoption Among Older Adults

Abstract

Wrist-worn wearable technologies such as smartwatches are seen to be one of the breakthrough devices that would help older adults age successfully. However, to date, there is still a lack of systematic evaluation of smartwatch adoption for older adults. Thus, in order to gain a better understanding of older adults’ attitude towards the acceptance of wearable technologies, a user acceptance model was proposed by extending the previously validated Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). A 26-item Likert-type questionnaire was administered to 76 older adults, aged 50 to 74, following the actual demonstration of the usage and features of two smartwatches (Samsung Galaxy Watch 42 mm and MiBand 4). Results reveal that prior experience, affective quality and technology-related anxiety affected older adults’ perception of ease of use. While social support impacted their attitude, accessibility had an effect on their intention to use the smartwatch. These results provide a good insight with regards to the acceptability factors for smartwatch adoption among older adults.