Finnish Immigrants' Affective Attitude Towards the IMPMS for Loneliness Detection: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Abstract

Loneliness is a global health concern that contributes to morbidity in immigrant populations. However, traditional treatments for loneliness focus on symptom management rather than prevention. Technology-related solutions for preventing and assessing loneliness among immigrants are crucial. This study explored Finnish immigrants' affective attitude towards the IoT-based Multimodal Personalized mHealth System (IMPMS), a system for building predictive models for loneliness detection. In this descriptive qualitative study embedded within the DOMINO feasibility study, immigrants in Finland shared their experiences and perspectives of the IMPMS. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using an interview guide based on the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Finnish immigrants considered the IMPMS acceptable, as evidenced by their positive experiences with the system. Areas for improvement highlighted in the results could be utilized to further refine and enhance the acceptability of the IMPMS for future implementation.