The Use of Phones by Elders with Disabilities: Problems, Interventions, Costs

Recognizing the important role the telephone plays in the life of frail elders, this study sought to gain a better understanding of the problems these elders encounter in using their phones to meet their needs. Starting with a sample of 354 frail elders, it was determined that 35, or just under 10%, were having some difficulty in the use of their phones. Twenty-two of these 35 subjects were randomly selected for an assessment of their impairments and phone setups in their homes. Interventions were provided to 19 of the 22 subjects, with two subjects refusing an intervention. At a 6-week follow-up call, all subjects were satisfied with the new phone or phone-related equipment. At a 6-month follow-up, 95% of subjects expressed satisfaction with the intervention. Phone usage increased by 50% for subjects provided a phone intervention. Average cost of equipment was $70.45; cost of personnel time was significantly higher. Recommendations are made for addressing the phone-related problems of frail elders.