Old age or cognitive decline? Examining the usability of a mobile health app for older Australians.

There is a growing literature on the role of mobile health applications (mHealth apps) in supporting older adults and the self-management of personal health. The purpose of this pilot study is to assess the usability of a government-funded mobile health app amongst older Australians and to evaluate whether cognitive function and demographic characteristics (i.e. age, gender, education) are associated with usability. A total of 28 older adults living in a regional city in Australia took part in the study. The participants were recruited using purposive sampling. Data collection instruments consisted of validated cognitive tests, task-based usability tests, and a questionnaire. The data was analyzed using non-parametric strategies. The findings of this study demonstrated that a government-funded, mHealth app was usable by older adults. Users were able to perform basic tasks in an effective and efficient manner. The hypothesis that elderly age would be significantly associated with performance on cognitive tests, as well as usability, was not supported. Performance on some cognitive tests was significantly and positively related to usability. Education and gender were not related to usability. The results suggest that traditional stereotypes surrounding aging and cognitive decline need to be reexamined.

It starts at home: non-economic factors influencing consumer acceptance of battery storage in Australia.

Homeowners play a critical role in the uptake of low-carbon technologies, yet little is known about the factors that underlie market acceptance of residential battery storage. This research integrates social-psychological, demographic and behavioural factors into a holistic model that predicts market acceptance. Previous research has indicated that social factors play a crucial role in the adoption of rooftop solar. Still, the influence of subjective norms on battery storage, a relatively invisible technology, has yet to be fully understood. An online survey from homeowners in Australia, a mature renewable energy market, is used to provide insights into market acceptance that are relevant to international energy markets. A two-step econometric model, using factor analysis and ordered logistic regression, was used for data analysis. The results show that subjective norms, moral emotions and an environmental self-identity are positively associated with market acceptance. Demographic factors, such as younger age and higher levels of education, predict market acceptance. Motives such as technical interest, autarky and load-shifting behaviours are also relevant. Several recommendations for policymakers and practitioners are offered to improve the acceptance of battery storage, including interventions that exploit social parameters and appeal to consumer psychology.