WP2. Rapid Scoping Literature Review of Digital Care Technologies in Social Care

In work package 2 we undertook a scoping literature review and evidence synthesis of novel digital technologies being used within social care. The review focused on identifying examples of how novel digital care technologies are being used within social care., what is known about the experience, outcomes and cost effectiveness of these technologies and factors influencing the implementation of these technologies in social care.

Findings from the review indicated that when integrating digital technologies into social care services, services should consider the preconditions required to successfully implement technologies. This means considering factors influencing the adoption of technologies across the whole service, as well as how adoption is sustained over the long term. The evidence suggests that the successful implementation of technologies within care services relies upon intuitive, person-centred, and adaptable approaches to technology. These approaches should be introduced early in the care process, so that habits can form, and changes can be made before a person’s needs grow, e.g. as cognitive decline progresses. Services also need to consider ethical issues influencing successful adoption and use, such as privacy, autonomy, access to data, and existing cultural sensitivities. Services can support older people to positively engage with technologies through early digital literacy training, by using low-tech or DIY options as practical alternatives to more complex care technologies and providing ongoing personalised support.

Far from being a quick fix, introducing new technologies into existing care services often creates new tasks and expectations that can increase the chances of non-adoption and abandonment if not managed. Providing clear support and setting expectations can support this process. It’s a cliche but care providers must recognize that technologies should complement—never replace—in-person personal care. If such findings are to make it into practice care organizations must conduct comprehensive, ongoing assessments of both the care recipient and the unpaid carer.  Seeing care staff as “cultural brokers” who can be positioned to provide both personalised and person-centred support has specific potential in supporting the successful adoption of technologies. Finally, solutions, both in terms of technologies and the services providing them should be co-designed. This process should include older social care users, family carers, formal care workers, and tech developers to deliver user-friendly, real-world tools that fit seamlessly into community care.

You can find more information about the scoping review, its methodology and a more detailed report of its finding in the following publication: Gibson, G., Lariviere, M., Steils, N., Marston, H., Wilson-Nash, C., Lynch, J., Brittain, K., Henderson, C., Thorn, J., Worthington, J. and Pike, K., (2025). DIALOGUE: Digital care technologies for social connection, care and support of older adults. Final Project Report. NIHR Open Research, 5, p.95.