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    Identity concerns and older people’s use of assistive technology: A scoping review


    Morejon Hernandez, Yanet, Smith Moyo, Gravet and Desmond, Deirdre (2025) Identity concerns and older people’s use of assistive technology: A scoping review. Assistive Technology. pp. 1-35.

    Abstract

    This scoping review explores conceptualizations of identity in relation to older adults’ use of assistive technology and describes patterns of AT use and emotional experiences associated with identity-related concerns. Searches were conducted in six databases (n = 1508) limited to peer-reviewed papers published between 2000 and 2022; resulting in the inclusion of 33 relevant papers. The literature evidences an array of overlapping conceptualizations within identity and self. Older adults’ experiences with assistive technology are nuanced by ambivalent emotions; marked by both positive – autonomy, security – and negative associations – loss of independence, stigma, threat to personal identity, and dignity. Patterns of technology use encompass compensatory strategies such as negotiation, delays, resignation, substitutions, and pragmatic customizations; these are strongly determined by the self-perception of the need to use assistive technologies. Findings demonstrate that identity-related concerns influence older adults’ behavioral and emotional responses regarding the use of assistive technology. This highlights the need for further research on lived experiences and the role of stakeholders in supporting older adults’ identity processes throughout their adoption of assistive technology.
    Item Type: Article
    Keywords: assistive technology; older people; identity; self; conceptualisation;
    Academic Unit: Assisting Living & Learning,ALL institute
    Faculty of Science and Engineering > Psychology
    Item ID: 20905
    Identification Number: 10.1080/10400435.2025.2591838
    Depositing User: IR Editor
    Date Deposited: 15 Dec 2025 12:19
    Journal or Publication Title: Assistive Technology
    Refereed: Yes
    Use Licence: This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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