JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Chronic illnesses often impair mobility, memory, and daily functioning, creating challenges for both patients and caregivers. Smart Internet of Things (IoT) technologies offer promising solutions by enabling real-time monitoring and personalized support for physical and cognitive needs. The initial AUdio and RAdio connected (AURA) system was designed as a conceptual IoT-based solution integrating Wi-Fi sensing and voice assistance to enhance independence, safety, and quality of life.

Objective:

This study aims to explore stakeholders’ needs and preferences for using smart IoT monitoring and assistive technology to support home care, in order to inform the development of AURA prototype’s essential features and functionalities for chronic illness management.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 5 patients and their caregivers who have Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) and 6 patients who were post-ostomy creation for colorectal or bladder cancer treatment. Input from additional stakeholders, including 2 healthcare providers, 2 community health workers, and 2 computer scientists, were also included in the report. Participants were introduced to the initial AURA system design through a video demonstration. A thematic analysis was employed to identify themes, guided by the extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT2).

Results:

Five themes about stakeholders’ needs and preferences for using smart IoT monitoring and assistive technology emerged: (1) Performance Expectancy, highlighting the need for cognitive support among ADRD stakeholders and physical health management for cancer patients; (2) Effort Expectancy, emphasizing simplicity for ADRD users and practicality for cancer patients; (3) Social Influence, revealing the critical roles of caregivers and clinicians in system adoption; (4) Facilitating Conditions, addressing barriers such as technological literacy and physical fatigue while identifying features to allow system customization and healthcare integration as facilitators; and (5) Hedonic Motivation, focusing on social engagement and emotional well-being for ADRD stakeholders and physical activity encouragement for cancer patients.

Conclusions:

Stakeholders provided critical insights into the distinct needs and preferences of diverse populations to guide the development of the AURA prototype. By integrating these insights, AURA has the potential to deliver a user-centered, scalable solution that enhances independence, safety, and quality of life for patients with chronic illnesses. Future work will involve prototyping and real-world testing to refine AURA's design and functionality.