Gerontechnology usage and acceptance model (GUAM):A qualitative study of Chinese older adults in Malaysia

Background: This study aimed to explore the factors underlying the acceptance (or resistance) of older adults to technology through a qualitative exploratory method. Method: A total of 118 Chinese older adults in Malaysia were interviewed. Results: The findings of this study shed light into the experiences of older adults with new technology and the factors affecting their adoption of technology. Specifically, the product factors such as easy-to-use (simple and practical), security (misplacement of peripheral devices) were the main predictors of desired outcomes for older adults (enhance quality of life, happiness, independence and convenience). These relationships were jointly influenced by personal factors (fear of use and personality) and economic factors (cost). Theoretical and practical suggestions are provided for scholars and industrial practitioners in dealing with the technology adoption of older adults.