A scoping review of technology acceptance models and theories for sustainable use in people with dementia

Abstract

This scoping review explores the factors influencing the acceptance and sustainable use of digital health technologies among people living with dementia (PwD). Following the PRISMA-ScR framework, five databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, PsycInfo, and IEEE Xplore) were systematically searched to identify studies that explicitly applied technology acceptance models or theories in dementia care. Thirty-one articles published between 2009 and 2023 met the inclusion criteria, including 26 empirical studies and 5 reviews. The review found that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and social influence were the most frequently studied constructs and the strongest predictors of acceptance. Other emerging determinants—such as perceived enjoyment, adaptivity, trust, and anxiety—also play important roles, particularly given the cognitive and emotional characteristics of dementia. Barriers such as privacy concerns, cost, and lack of usability further limit technology adoption. Findings highlight the need to design and evaluate assistive technologies through user-centred and ethically grounded approaches, ensuring accessibility, data protection, and adaptability to the evolving needs of PwD and their caregivers. This review provides the first systematic mapping of technology acceptance constructs specifically applied to dementia, offering guidance for future research and the development of inclusive, person-centred digital health solutions.