How Older Indigenous Women Living in High-Income Countries Use Digital Health Technology: Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Indigenous Health
• Health Equity

Background:

• Digital health technologies have rapidly advanced, with calls for their use in underserved populations.
• However, research in digital health has often overlooked specific demographics, including older Indigenous women in high-income countries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing literature on how older Indigenous women in high-income countries utilize digital health technology.
• To consolidate knowledge on the effectiveness, acceptability, and usability of these technologies for this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search of 8 databases was conducted (March 2022).
• Included studies (Jan 2006–Mar 2022) focused on older Indigenous women in high-income countries and user-focused digital health technology.
• The review followed PRISMA guidelines, incorporating quality measures, thematic analysis, and lived experience analysis.

Main Results:

• Only three studies met the inclusion criteria, indicating minimal research.
• Older Indigenous women feel unrepresented in mainstream digital health offerings and prefer culturally relevant approaches.
• Significant gaps exist in research quantity and the consistent engagement of Indigenous people in research processes and governance.

Conclusions:

• Digital health technologies must be tailored to the specific needs and preferences of older Indigenous women.
• Further research is crucial to understand and address these requirements for equitable digital health adoption.
• Engaging older Indigenous women throughout the research and development process is essential for creating safe, usable, effective, and acceptable digital health solutions.