The assisted living project: a process evaluation of implementation of sensor technology in community assisted living. A feasibility study.

INTRODUCTION: The ageing population has been described as a grand societal challenge worldwide, and access to technology is one important strategy for meeting this challenge. The Assisted Living Project has a responsible research and innovation approach and includes older adults in evaluating sensor-based functions in assisted living facilities. The purpose of involving users in research is to enhance a wider dialogue about the values, methods, and purposes of the research project.

METHODS: We carried out a feasibility study in order to inform the development and conduct of a pilot project with eight residents. The purposes were to evaluate the process of technology installation, the feasibility of the technology, and methods for user involvement. One resident, Hilda, gave her informed consent to take part in this feasibility study. Her sensor system consisted of two magnetic sensors, six pyroelectric infrared motion sensors, one power sensor, one push button by the entrance door, and one loudspeaker. The sensors were wirelessly connected to a controller, which registered and transmitted all data to a secure server.

RESULTS: The feasibility study suggested important modifications for the pilot project, which concerned pre-configuration of the sensors, securing efficiently, rapid installation, number of visitors during the installation, preparation necessitating a site acceptance test for the wireless network and environmental prerequisites for mounting the sensors. Furthermore, this study recommends that the signals that are transmitted from the sensors to the secure server need verification.

CONCLUSION: A feasibility study provides an opportunity to inform develop and conduct of a main trial. The MRC framework was useful for doing a process evaluation to assess feasbility and quality of implementation, clarify causal mechanisms and identify contextual factors associated with variations in outcome. Implications for rehabilitation The feasibility study was useful in order to develop sustainable technological solutions by evaluating the robustness of the technology consider challenges regarding the architectural features/requirements for mounting sensors etc. decide user needs for individual tailoring to reach a 'person-fit' technology User participation in a feasibility study is vital to learn about the end user's needs and expectations regarding information, technical support, for support in daily use and follow-up. Transdisciplinary collaboration in the feasibility study is necessary to inform the main technology implementation project.