We wrapped up focus groups with caregivers and professionals across several European countries, on the role of technology and AI in supporting informal caregivers. The results are in! Here’s a quick look at what we learned:
Key Findings
- Caregivers face numerous challenges spanning emotional, financial, physical, and logistical domains, impacting their well-being and ability to provide optimal care.
- Technology use is currently limited, with basic tools like smartphones being common, but advanced AI applications are rare.
- Perceptions of AI are mixed, with hope for its potential to ease burden and enhance safety, but also concerns about loss of human connection, ethical implications, data privacy, and accessibility issues.
- Professionals acknowledge the potential of AI for specific solutions, but note infrastructure gaps and the importance of human involvement.
- Future caregiving envisions a hybrid approach, where AI complements human care, focusing on efficiency, safety, and personalization while addressing ethical and practical concerns.
- Core Needs and Solutions: include: emotional support, training and competencies. accessible technology with emphasis on human interaction.
Conclusion
While AI holds promise for transforming caregiving by improving efficiency, safety, and access to information, its successful and ethical implementation requires a balanced approach that prioritizes human connection, addresses accessibility and affordability, provides adequate training and support, and mitigates potential risks related to privacy, security, and emotional well-being.
Insights from the AI4H Focus Groups