Peer-reviewed article
The application of welfare technology in preventing solitary death among frail older adults who have lost their only child: A qualitative study based on the experiences of home help service providers.
Peng J, Alavi K, Shaari AAH, Li J, Feng L ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view ·Key points
Limitations
Abstract
Background Frail older adults who have lost their only child face elevated risks of solitary death due to the combined impacts of physical vulnerability and lack of family support. Welfare technology has been promoted to enhance safety in home-based care, yet little is known about its practical role and challenges from the perspective of community service providers. Aim To explore home help service providers' perceptions of welfare technology in preventing solitary death and the challenges in its implementation. Methods A descriptive phenomenological design was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 community workers and caregivers and one focus group with 7 volunteers across two urban communities in Chongqing, China. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings Three themes were identified: (i) welfare technology enhanced safety and reassurance through more timely risk monitoring and response; (ii) practical difficulties limited sustained use, including operational complexity, low acceptance among older users, technical instability, and added workload for providers; (iii) welfare technology could not fulfil emotional support needs or replace relational aspects of care, particularly for those lacking family support. Conclusion Welfare technology can support physical safety in home care for frail older adults who have lost their only child. However, its effectiveness is constrained by usability issues and its inability to address emotional and relational dimensions of care. Integrating technological solutions with person-centred relational care may be critical for improving overall well-being in this vulnerable group.