Pilot study of using video technology with older adults living at home
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Pilot study of using ‘SpeakSet’ video technology with older adults living at home
IRAS ID
205484
Contact name
Jennifer Stock (CC in J.MALONE to ALL CORRESPONDENCE)
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Anglia Ruskin University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 7 days
Research summary
The key purpose of the pilot study is to find out about the acceptability and feasibility to older adults living at home of using a communication technology called SpeakSet, which allows users to make video calls through an existing television sets with friends, family, and their GP. Other people do not need to have a SpeakSet box, they can make video calls through accessing the website and using a webcam. We are also interested in finding out any challenges to using this technology and any suggestions for improvement. The pilot study will help identify ways that the SpeakSet technology could be used to enhance communication and improve health and social care services, including participant’s wellbeing and social interaction.
We are aiming to recruit 25 older people to try out this technology for free over four months. We plan to interview participants three times at the beginning, middle and end of the four months and would also ask them to fill out a questionnaire before and after the four months. We will also be collecting usage data from the SpeakSet box via a remote server. We will not be able to listen into their calls.
Anglia Ruskin University are leading on this project, which is funded by Essex County Council. Dr Ian Perry from Maynard’s Court Surgery, involved in the recruitment and running of the project. SpeakSet are our technology partner and have developed this communication technology through working with older adults. The Older Peoples Research Group Essex will be carrying out the interviews and will travel to participant homes at a pre-arranged time convenient for them.REC name
East of England - Essex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0272
Date of REC Opinion
12 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion