Exploring Professionals’ Perceptions of the Potential of Digital Twins in Homecare—A Focus Group Study in Sweden

TL;DR

This study explores how homecare professionals in Sweden see digital twins as a tool to improve care for older adults and their own work, while also highlighting concerns about ethics and understanding.

Contribution

The study provides novel insights into Swedish homecare professionals' perceptions of digital twins, emphasizing both potential benefits and ethical concerns.

Findings

Digital twins are seen as tools for individualized care and proactive support for older adults.

Professionals believe digital twins can streamline tasks and improve their work environment.

Concerns include ethical issues, limited understanding, and the importance of physical visits.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The growing number of older adults with complex healthcare needs increases demand for homecare services, while a shrinking workforce often lacks skills for advanced tasks. Digital health is seen as a promising tool to address these challenges. This study explored Swedish homecare professionals’ perceptions of the potential use of digital twins in daily work. Methods: Four focus group discussions were conducted with 31 homecare professionals; two groups each in one urban/rural and one rural municipality. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results: Three main themes emerged: (i) Perceptions of digital twins as support for older adults, including needs-based, individualized care and proactive support enabling preventive measures; (ii) Perceptions of digital twins as support for professionals, including a better work environment through streamlined tasks and flows and enhanced planning and assessment; and (iii) Concerns about digital twins, focusing on ethical and social issues and limited understanding, which were related to monitoring aspects, the importance of physical visits, and how the technology works. Conclusions: Digital twins are perceived by professionals to have the potential to improve homecare services by supporting both older adults and professionals; however, further research is needed to address concerns and practical implications.