A health-equity framework for tailoring digital non-pharmacological interventions in aging

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Digital Health
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Digital non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) offer scalable solutions for age-related mental health disorders in older adults.
• Health disparities persist in this demographic, often exacerbated by unequal access to technology and digital literacy.
• Existing digital NPIs may not effectively reach or serve disadvantaged older adult populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a health-equity-promoting framework for developing digital NPIs.
• To address limitations in technological access, literacy, and effectiveness for disadvantaged groups.
• To ensure digital NPIs can effectively reduce health disparities in older adults.

Main Methods:

• Development of a framework emphasizing health equity principles.
• Review of literature to identify examples of targeted digital NPIs.
• Analysis of strategies to enhance technological access, literacy, and effectiveness.

Main Results:

• A framework for equitable digital NPI design was proposed.
• Examples demonstrate targeted interventions can improve access and effectiveness.
• Specific strategies can overcome technological barriers for disadvantaged older adults.

Conclusions:

• Digital NPIs hold significant potential for reducing mental health disparities in older adults.
• A health-equity-focused approach is crucial for maximizing the reach and impact of these interventions.
• Targeted design strategies are necessary to ensure equitable access and effectiveness across diverse populations.