Direct Care Workforce Training: Internet Accessibility and Acceptance.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Care Education
• Online Learning

Background:

• Web-based learning enhances healthcare professional knowledge and access.
• Limited data exists on online education's impact on hands-on skills for personal care aides (PCAs).
• Emerging online and hybrid PCA training models face accessibility barriers for low-income individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate internet access, use, and acceptability in a personal care aide training demonstration.
• To identify challenges and preferences in online and hybrid PCA training models.

Main Methods:

• A PCA training demonstration was conducted to assess internet-related factors.
• Data collection focused on trainee experiences with online and in-person components.

Main Results:

• Most trainees favored a hybrid online/in-person training model.
• Significant gaps in access and acceptability were identified, particularly concerning reading ability.
• Low-income PCAs face challenges with computer and internet access.

Conclusions:

• Hybrid models are preferred for PCA training, but accessibility issues must be addressed.
• Reading ability is a critical factor influencing the acceptability of online PCA training.
• Addressing access and literacy gaps is crucial for developing a competent PCA workforce for elder care.