The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which older people in Germany tend to anthropomorphize the devices when interacting with voice assistants (VAs). The study uses a mixed-methods approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative research methods. A total of 32 participants from 20 households of older adults 55+ in Germany were recruited for the study. The data were collected through guided interviews and IT-supported interaction logs. The study was conducted from May 19, 2021, to September 9, 2021. The analysis identified usability patterns and error rates. The study revealed that usage logs offered valuable insights into interaction patterns and morphic tendencies. The results underline the importance of personification for older adults’ acceptance of digital technologies and their potential use to promote well-being and social participation. These findings call for a differentiated view of older people and the development of targeted strategies to bridge the digital divide.

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Tendencies of Antropomorphization of Voice Assistants in the Home Environment of German Older Adults: A Field Study with Amazon Alexa

  • Dietmar Jakob,
  • Sebastian Wilhelm,
  • Diane Ahrens,
  • Florian Wahl

摘要

The aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which older people in Germany tend to anthropomorphize the devices when interacting with voice assistants (VAs). The study uses a mixed-methods approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative research methods. A total of 32 participants from 20 households of older adults 55+ in Germany were recruited for the study. The data were collected through guided interviews and IT-supported interaction logs. The study was conducted from May 19, 2021, to September 9, 2021. The analysis identified usability patterns and error rates. The study revealed that usage logs offered valuable insights into interaction patterns and morphic tendencies. The results underline the importance of personification for older adults’ acceptance of digital technologies and their potential use to promote well-being and social participation. These findings call for a differentiated view of older people and the development of targeted strategies to bridge the digital divide.