Bridging the Digital Divide: Factors Influencing eHealth Use Among Homebound Older Adults During the COVID-19...

This study examined how access to Information and Communication Technology (ICT) devices, prior online experience, and ICT training (with or without assistance) influenced eHealth use among homebound Medicare beneficiaries in the U.S. during COVID-19. Data were obtained from the National Health and Aging Trends Study, and participants (N = 653) were categorized as non-users, patient portal users, video telehealth users, or dual users. Multinomial logistic regression models showed that access to ICT devices was initially associated with eHealth engagement. However, this association became non-significant after accounting for prior online experience and ICT training. Prior online experience significantly predicted patient portal use, while ICT training, particularly when provided with assistance, significantly predicted video telehealth use and dual usage. The study highlights that providing ICT devices alone may be insufficient to reduce eHealth disparities among homebound older adults. Educational programs promoting digital engagement and targeted training are essential to ensure equitable healthcare access.