Attitudes Toward Web-Based Presence Technology for Social Connectedness in Long-Term Care: A Qualitative Descriptive Study.

IntroductionWhile web-based presence technology (WPT) is increasingly used within long-term care homes (LTCHs) to support social connectedness, understanding the unique attitudes of older adults, family members, and staff is central to its meaningful adoption.MethodsUsing a qualitative descriptive approach, individual semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted with 39 participants (older adults, family, and staff). Data were analyzed using content analysis.ResultsA continuum of positive, negative, and ambivalent attitudes towards WPT use for social connectedness emerged. Positive attitudes arose from enabled social connections and growing comfort with WPT. Ambivalent attitudes were grounded in generational differences and ethical concerns around meaningful use of WPT. Negative attitudes were informed by privacy and security concerns or difficulty using WPT.ConclusionThe ambivalent attitudes highlight nuanced perspectives on adoption rather than simple resistance to WPT. Sustained meaningful WPT use within LCTHs will require a multi-pronged approach that includes advocacy, education, supports (older adults, family, and staff), and system-level changes.