Background: Smart technology (SHT) adoption by older adults likely occurs when typical occupational participation and coping strategies are ineffective. By understanding user’s experiences, OT can better serve those aging in place.

Objective: Describe the lived experience of older adults adopting SHT.

Methods: Investigators used phenomenology, examining experiences of six older adults. Interviews occurred

before, two months, and eight months after participants received smart speakers and sensor technology which

captured data on activity patterns viewable by the participant and their designated family member. Investigators

conducted open, axial, and selective coding of transcripts.

Results: Participant themes about the smart speaker included [Alexa as] a friend or security blanket and it

helps me organize myself. Themes on sensor technology included: not noticing the sensors; it changed/didn’t

change me; problems with technology; and it could be helpful for other seniors living alone.

Conclusions: Changes in activity patterns and the extent to which older adults view SHT as useful for aging in

place depends on the interaction between person (i.e. declining health, frequent falls) and context (i.e. living

alone, busy family).