title: Ethics in Evaluating a Sociotechnical Intervention With Socially Isolated Older Adults.
abstract: The purpose of this article is to consider how ethical principles can inform the effective design and implementation of technology-based interventions that aim to promote the well-being of socially isolated older adults. We evaluated a new iPad application with small groups of older adults. In this article, we reflect on the ethical issues encountered at each stage of the research process. Drawing on the ethical principles of beneficence, research merit and integrity, justice, and respect, we identify key issues to consider in the future design and implementation of social isolation interventions that use new technologies. Key issues include (a) providing sufficient support to facilitate ongoing social interactions, (b) managing older adults' expectations, (c) providing encouragement without coercion, and (d) responding to individual needs. We conclude that it is important to report on ethical challenges incurred when evaluating social isolation interventions to inform future research in this important area.
authors: The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia jwaycott@unimelb.edu.au.
authors: Jenny
authors: J
authors: Waycott
authors: Benetas Aged Care Services, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Amee
authors: A
authors: Morgans
authors: Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Sonja
authors: S
authors: Pedell
authors: The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Elizabeth
authors: E
authors: Ozanne
authors: The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Frank
authors: F
authors: Vetere
authors: The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Lars
authors: L
authors: Kulik
authors: The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
authors: Hilary
authors: H
authors: Davis
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D026686:Beneficence; D034201:Computers, Handheld; D032984:Ethics, Research; D016330:Frail Elderly / Q000523:psychology*; D006699:Home Care Services / Q000941:ethics*; D006801:Humans; D063731:Mobile Applications; D051346:Mobility Limitation; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012934:Social Isolation / Q000523:psychology*; D061108:Social Media / Q000941:ethics* / Q000295:instrumentation; D058992:Social Participation / Q000523:psychology*; D012944:Social Support
keywords: ethics / moral perspectives; older people; participation, social; technology; vulnerable populations