A Comprehensive Review of Ethical Considerations and Privacy Concerns in the Use of Digital Interventions for Older Adults with Cognitive Impairments

Description

Page: 23-32

Varsha Kumari and Alina Khanam (Department of Applied Psychology, Vivekananda College, University of Delhi, Delhi)

With the advancement of technology, the world has come up with different forms of innovations that can support the life of elderly people with cognitive impairments. Although, these technologies are useful with some of the benefits being independence, safety and better quality of life; ethical issues and privacy are some of the challenges that must not be overlooked. This review seeks to provide a literature-based review of the existing ethical dilemmas and privacy issues related to the implementation of digital interventions for the elderly with cognitive impairment. This review synthesizes findings from 42 research studies sourced from electronic databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, the Directory of Open Access Journals, RefSeek, and ScienceDirect, spanning the years 2018 to 2024. A thematic approach was employed to categorize the findings into four primary themes: (1) privacy and data security, (2) consent and cognitive capacity, (3) autonomy versus dependency, and (4) the ethical implications of surveillance technologies. The analysis revealed that while digital interventions can improve cognitive engagement and safety, they often lack adequate safeguards to protect users’ privacy and may inadvertently infringe on personal autonomy. Cognitive impairment poses ethical risks particularly regarding patients’ capacity to provide consent when entering into such processes. Notably, the review stresses focus on older adults with cognitive impairments, that digital interventions should be responsive to the specifics of the geriatric population, prioritize their wellbeing and dignity, and respect their right to autonomy. Therefore, to conclude in light of the results obtained, there is a need to develop stronger ethical frameworks when it comes to design and application of technology-enabled solutions. Future research should focus on developing frameworks that prioritize the ethical use of digital technologies, particularly in vulnerable populations, ensuring that the ethical risks do not outweigh the benefits of technological innovation.