title: Effectiveness of a video-based aging services technology education program for health care professionals.
abstract: Health care professionals (HCPs) are a critical source of recommendations for older adults. Aging services technologies (ASTs), which include devices to support the health-care needs of older adults, are underutilized despite evidence for improving functional outcomes and safety and reducing caregiver burden and health costs. This study evaluated a video-based educational program aimed at improving HCP awareness of ASTs. Sixty-five HCPs viewed AST videos related to medication management, daily living, and memory. Following the program, participants' objective and perceived AST knowledge improved, as did self-efficacy and anticipated AST engagement. About 95% of participants stated they were more likely to recommend ASTs postprogram. Participants benefitted equally regardless of years of experience or previous AST familiarity. Furthermore, change in self-efficacy and perceived knowledge were significant predictors of engagement change. Overall, the educational program was effective in improving HCPs' awareness of ASTs and appeared to benefit all participants regardless of experience and prior knowledge.
authors.affiliation: a Washington State University , Department of Psychology , Pullman , Washington , USA.
authors.forename: Alyssa
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Weakley
authors.affiliation: a Washington State University , Department of Psychology , Pullman , Washington , USA.
authors.forename: Joyce W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Tam
authors.affiliation: b Washington State University , College of Nursing , Vancouver , Washington , USA.
authors.forename: Catherine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Van Son
authors.affiliation: a Washington State University , Department of Psychology , Pullman , Washington , USA.
authors.forename: Maureen
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Schmitter-Edgecombe
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005853:Geriatrics / Q000193:education*; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D019359:Knowledge; D008297:Male; D054539:Medication Therapy Management; D008568:Memory; D008875:Middle Aged; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D014743:Videotape Recording
keywords: Assistive technology; barriers; evidence-based recommendations; older adults; technology adoption