PRISM 2.0 in Diverse Living Contexts

This study is part of the CREATE center. The focus of the study is to evaluate the expanded version of PRISM 1.0 for a broad array of seniors with different needs and circumstances. The aims of the study are to: 1) obtain information on perceptions of the usefulness and usability of PRISM 2.0 and interface design issues; 2) examine the impact of access to PRISM 2.0 on social connectivity, engagement, social support, and perceived loneliness; 3) examine the impact of access to PRISM 2.0 on perceived isolation, wellbeing, and quality of life; 4) examine the impact of access PRISM 2.0 on computer attitudes, self-efficacy, technology proficiency and technology uptake; 5) gather data on usefulness of system features and if these vary by living condition; and 6) examine, in our statistical models, the influence of factors such as age, cognitive abilities, ethnicity, education on system use and outcomes. The design of the PRISM 2.0 is well grounded and the chosen features will be based on: 1) the findings from the PRISM 1.0 trial; 2) the cognitive, human factors and engineering; 3) emerging findings in aging (e.g., findings related to technology acceptance, social isolation, social networks, life engagement); 4) existing theories of aging (e.g., Stress-Process Model; Active Theory; Social Isolation/Engagement; 5) findings regarding the benefits of technology for seniors; 6) findings from previous work from CREATE regarding interface design, training, provision of environmental support, and the needs of older adults; 7) recent findings regarding Internet use among older adults; 8) findings from our prior focus groups on barriers to access of technology and technology preferences; 9) findings from our technology-based community intervention programs with older adults; 10) existing models of technology adoption and diffusion; 11) the literature on implementation science our planned focus groups and pilot testing of PRISM 2.0.

Inclusion criteria

• Age 65+ years
• Able to read English at the 6th grade level
• Passing score of Social Isolation Screening
• Passing score of brief Technology Proficiency Screen
• Passing score of Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS)
• Passing score of Woodcock Johnson Reading Comprehension (Spanish equivalent)
• Passing score of Fuld Object Memory Evaluation

Exclusion criteria

• Blind or deaf
• Has terminal Illness or severe motor impairment
• Significant use of computer/Internet/email in the home or elsewhere
• Working for a paid more than 5 hours/week
• Participate as formal volunteer more than 5 hours/week
• Attend senior center or another formal organization for than 10 hours/week