M.-J. Chen
of health monitoring information, recognizing the utility of these data sources. Some seniors also mentioned in-
creased social interactions generated in the community setting [11]. However, in the current study 37.3% of the
elderly did not accept smartphones despite their expectations for the possible contribution of future smartphones.
Elderly people are usually favorable towards issues they are aware of. On the other hand when facing novelty
or unfamiliar issues they demonstrate lessened confidence, memory, reasoning, judgment and even eye-hand co-
ordination due to physical and psychological ageing. A new motion or operation without previous knowledge
will create difficulties. As a result, their ability of information processing, logical thinking or postural and spatial
coordination deteriorates. This tendency becomes evident when they operate new products. The elderly tend to
lose confidence in using new gadgets when they have less control of the devices [12].
Nowadays smartphones perform multiple tasks, but the elderly people prefer that mobile phones as simple as
possible because most of them only use phones to make and receive calls. In this sense, mobile phones can be
designed to meet the expectations of this particular group. Most seniors are now aware that they can change
phones to solve usage barriers such as small display or buttons, but from accepting smartphones to seeing them
as a tool to manage disease is an area little studied. The context of the elderly mobile phone users is worth re-
search because it will provide insights in the development of an everyday high-tech, elderly-friendly product.
5. Discussion
The research found that the elderly with higher acceptance of smartphones were more likely to expect smart-
phones to facilitate chronic disease management. While more and more elderly people possess mobile phones,
the extent to which mobile phones integrate into daily life differs. The research presented a scope for future
smartphone application in chronic disease control. Despite a relatively lower level of smartphone acceptance,
the elderly still expected a positive role for mobile appliances to play in chronic disease management. We sug-
gest that future design of mobile phones be informed by the lifestyle and needs of users. We also suggest that
new strategy be adopted to make health management an integral part of overall need assessment.
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