An exploration of smart speakers to support independence, competence, and relatedness for older adults at risk of digital exclusion in public and social housing

Makin, Lauren, Smith, Liz ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3509-695X, Vass, Ben, Adams, Rebecca, Meema, Sedthawud, Griffin, Charlotte and Powell, Georgie ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6793-0446 2026. An exploration of smart speakers to support independence, competence, and relatedness for older adults at risk of digital exclusion in public and social housing. Information, Communication and Society 10.1080/1369118x.2026.2702606

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Abstract

This was mixed-methods longitudinal study where ninety-eight participants were randomly assigned to receive a smart speaker immediately (intervention group) or after three months (wait-list control). Wellbeing (ONS4) and loneliness (De Jong Gierveld Loneliness Scale) were measured at baseline, three, and nine months, alongside in-depth qualitative interviews. Voice-recordings from the devices were also collected. Participants primarily used smart speakers for entertainment, information, and reminders, reporting benefits associated with autonomy (convenient control of routines, access to entertainment), competence (confidence and cognitive stimulation, health behaviours), and relatedness (device-based companionship). However, no significant changes were found in quantitative measures of wellbeing or loneliness. Barriers included technology apprehension, low self-efficacy, and accessibility challenges, while facilitators included gradual learning, peer support, and supportive staff. Findings suggest that smart speakers support technologically mediated companionship, which is not captured well by standard interpersonal measures of loneliness. Furthermore, smart speaker engagement creates bidirectional feedback loops, where use fosters confidence and perceived autonomy, which in turn promotes further use. Our findings from a social housing population are consistent with broader socio-technical perspectives, where digital inclusion is relational and context-dependent, requiring social scaffolding and organisational support.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Schools > Psychology
Publisher:	Taylor and Francis Group
ISSN:	1369-118X
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	30 July 2026
Date of Acceptance:	6 July 2026
Last Modified:	30 Jul 2026 09:49
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/188624

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