Digital Health Information Disparities in Older Adults: a Mixed Methods Study.

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Informatics
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Health information is increasingly digitized for disease prevention and chronic disease self-management.
• Understanding digital health information (DHI) access across diverse older adult populations is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify computer ownership, internet access, and DHI use in an ethnically diverse older adult sample.
• To compare DHI access and use across ethnic groups (African American, Afro-Caribbean, Hispanic American, European American).
• To identify factors associated with limited DHI use among older adults.

Main Methods:

• Sequential explanatory mixed methods study combining quantitative surveys and qualitative focus groups.
• Quantitative analysis used logistic regression to identify predictors of DHI use.
• Qualitative phase explored ethnic-specific experiences and perceptions of DHI.

Main Results:

• Significant disparities in computer ownership, internet access, and DHI use were observed across ethnic groups.
• Older age, lower education, lower income, and minority status predicted limited DHI use.
• Qualitative findings revealed frustrations with access, reliance on alternative sources, and varied information evaluation strategies.

Conclusions:

• Ethnic and socioeconomic factors significantly influence older adults' access to and use of digital health information.
• Targeted interventions are needed to bridge the digital divide for economically disadvantaged and minority older adults.
• Addressing these disparities is essential to prevent further health disfranchisement in an increasingly digital health landscape.