Implementation and Acceptance of Information and Communication Technology Incorporated into Long-Term Care

Abstract

Every country in the world is facing serious demographic aging, since the average life expectancy is consistently increasing. Agencies involved in the implementation of caregiving through long-term care institutions can develop more convenient approaches using information and communication technology to enhance overall efficiency. Communication technology has enabled the strengthening of physiological instruments, improving the efficiency and quality of services, while integrating management systems for optimum efficiency. This work conducted empirical studies, collecting responses to questionnaires from residents and caregivers in five institutions located in the south of Taiwan. The PZB model, proposed by Parasuraman, Zeithaml, and Berry, was used to construct the questionnaire to analyze the service quality following the incorporation of information and communication technology. The results of the empirical study show that 34% and 63% of the relatives of the residents agreed and strongly agreed that the system was practical and convenient, respectively. As for the caregivers, 77% of them agreed or strongly agreed that the system was mobile, practical, and convenient, and they agreed that the system could significantly increase working efficiency, reduce waiting time, and improve administration for chronic diseases among care-home residents.