Space for Adoption: Exploring the adoption and sustained use of smart environments in dementia care facilities

The adoption of smart interactive environments in nursing homes is growing, reflecting their potential to enhance social interaction, agency, and reduce behavioural problems among people with dementia. Despite this potential, these technologies often remain underutilized after initial deployment. This study explores the factors influencing the adoption and sustained use of such technologies, aiming to bridge the gap between their capabilities and actual use through targeted operational mechanisms and strategic interventions.
Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research integrates the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, enriched with insights from care professionals and observations of dynamics in care homes. It identifies significant barriers to technology utilization and proposes enhancements to the UTAUT model to better accommodate the complexities of dementia care. This study highlights the importance of addressing both technological and sociopsychological factors to facilitate technology integration within nursing homes. Findings include the development of customized strategies that promote durable technology adoption and the refinement of theoretical models to support effective integration. These contributions aim to influence both practice and policy, potentially alleviating caregiver burdens and improving patient outcomes through more effective use of
technology. This expletory study underscores the need for a systemic and holistic approach to technology adoption in dementia care, ensuring that solutions are not only technically sound but also culturally and organizationally integrated within care settings.