Cocreation, Implementation, and Evaluation of Two Digital Innovations to Improve Home Adaptation for Older Adults: Protocol for an Action Research Pilot Study

Vollständiger Abstract

Worum geht es in dieser Arbeit?

Abstract Background Aging in place is a priority for many older adults but often requires home adaptations when temporary or permanent physical disabilities arise. It reduces the risk of falls, improves health-related quality of life, and enhances social participation. Two new digital innovations aim to support home adaptation: Hygiene 2.0, which facilitates the adaptation of baths and showers, and MapIt, which provides 3D mapping of the environment. Objective This action study aims to cocreate and evaluate the implementation of the Hygiene 2.0 and MapIt innovations and to measure their impact on supporting older adults who experience difficulties with personal hygiene or are in the process of adapting their homes. Methods This study uses a multiple case study approach with a mixed convergent design, guided by the i-PARIHS (integrated-Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services) framework. We will conduct semistructured interviews with 66 participants, including 8 older adults-informal caregiver dyads (or individual older adults when no informal caregiver is available) for MapIt only, 20 dyads for Hygiene 2.0 or the combined use of Hygiene 2.0 and MapIt, and 10 assistive technology advisors across all innovation scenarios. A cost analysis will be conducted from both the Quebec public system and patient perspectives. Qualitative data and mixed data integration will be analyzed using analytical questioning. Results This study was conducted within the framework of, and with financial support from, the Bien vieillir chez soi au Bas-Saint-Laurent action research program. Recruitment began in May 2024. We completed data collection in February 2026 and began data cleaning and analysis in March 2026. As of September 2025, we enrolled 1 dyad of older adults and informal caregivers using MapIt, 5 dyads using Hygiene 2.0 or the combination of Hygiene 2.0 and MapIt, and 10 assistive technology advisors. The manuscript describing the results of the study is expected to be published at the beginning of 2027. May. Conclusions This study will provide valuable insights into how innovative digital tools can facilitate home adaptations that promote aging in place. By assessing their implementation, usability, and cost-effectiveness, the findings are expected to inform best practices, guide decision-making for health and social care stakeholders, and ultimately contribute to improving the quality of life and autonomy of older adults.