Enhancing elderly patient journey: exploring immersive technology touchpoints and user experience in healthcare

This study examines the impact of Immersive Technologies (IMTs)on the elderly patients’ journey (PJ), the significance of UserExperience (UX) dimensions in quality care, and the drivers andbarriers to IMTs adoption. Using the Stimuli-Organism-Responseframework, we employed a qualitative multi-method approach.Interviews with 10 physiotherapists and 4 medical researchers,along with focus groups with 12 doctors, contributed to the devel-opment of a new PJ Map. Key findings highlight new ‘IMTs tech-nologies embedded in the PJ’, new ‘UX needs’, and ‘Obstacles andFacilitators to IMTs adoption’. Technologies range from awarenesstools (sensors, IoT) to advanced systems (wearables, AR/VR,robotics). The study emphasizes the role of UX in IMT adoption,offering strategic contributions for healthcare management.Recommendations include hybrid professions, training, patientsupport, and reevaluating the Patient Journey to incorporate tech-nological advancements, improving patient care, engagement, andresource management. Insights guide healthcare providers, policy-makers, and technology developers in advancing IMT integration,enhancing delivery, and addressing workforce shortages involving caregivers.