Bridging the Digital Divide: Exploring Determinants of Telehealth Utilization Among US Older Adults
2024
Exploring Telehealth Use Among Older Adults
Sample size: 6327
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Hwang Misun, Veliz Philip, Jiang Yun
Primary Institution: University of Michigan
Hypothesis
What factors determine telehealth utilization among older adults?
Conclusion
Many older adults face barriers to using telehealth despite needing it for their health conditions.
Supporting Evidence
- 46.1% of older adults reported using telehealth last year.
- Older, non-white individuals and those with lower education and income were less likely to use telehealth.
- Poor cognitive function and lack of social networks were linked to non-use of telehealth.
- Health conditions like cancer and anxiety increased the likelihood of telehealth utilization.
Takeaway
Some older people have trouble using online health services because of their age, education, or lack of technology, even though they need it.
Methodology
Logistic regression analysis of a nationally representative survey.
Limitations
The study may not capture all factors influencing telehealth use.
Participant Demographics
Community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) from the US.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI=1.12-1.92 for cancer, 95% CI=1.10-2.26 for anxiety
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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