Needs, barriers and facilitators of older adults towards eHealth in general practice: a qualitative study

Johannes William Vergouw; Hanneke Smits-Pelser; Marijke C. Kars; Thijs van Houwelingen; Harmieke van Os-Medendorp; Helianthe Kort; Nienke Bleijenberg

doi:10.1017/s1463423620000547

journal article Open Access Jan 01, 2020

Needs, barriers and facilitators of older adults towards eHealth in general practice: a qualitative study

Johannes William Vergouw Hanneke Smits-Pelser Marijke C. Kars

Thijs van Houwelingen Harmieke van Os-Medendorp Helianthe Kort Nienke Bleijenberg

Primary Health Care Research & Development Vol. 21 · Cambridge University Press (CUP)

View at Publisher Save 10.1017/s1463423620000547

Abstract

Abstract

Background:
The strain on health care services is increasing due to an ageing population and the increasing prevalence of chronic health conditions. eHealth could contribute to optimise effective and efficient care to older adults with one or more chronic health conditions in the general practice.

Aim:
The aim of this study was to identify the needs, barriers and facilitators amongst community-dwelling older adults (60+) suffering from one or more chronic health conditions, in using online eHealth applications to support general practice services.

Methods:
A qualitative study, using semi-structured followed by think-aloud interviews, was conducted in the Netherlands. The semi-structured interviews, supported by an interview guide were conducted and analysed thematically. The think-aloud method was used to collect data about the cognitive process while the participant was completing a task within online eHealth applications. Verbal analysis according to the Chi approach was conducted to analyse the think-aloud interviews.

Findings:
A total of n = 19 older adults with a mean age of 73 years participated. The ability to have immediate contact with the GP on important health issues was identified as an important need. Identified barriers were non-familiarity with the online eHealth applications and a mismatch of user health needs. The low computer experience resulted in non-familiarity with the online eHealth applications. Faltering applications resulted in participants refusing to participate in the use of online eHealth applications. Convenience, efficiency and the instant availability of eHealth via applications were identified as important facilitators.

Conclusion:
To improve the use and acceptability of eHealth applications amongst older adults in the general practice, the applications should be tailored to meet individual needs. More attention should be given to improving the user-friendliness of these applications and to the promotion of the benefits such as facilitating older adults independent living for longer.

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References

Details

Published: Jan 01, 2020
Vol/Issue: 21
License: View

Authors

J

Johannes William Vergouw

Thijs van Houwelingen

H

Harmieke van Os-Medendorp

Cite This Article

Johannes William Vergouw, Hanneke Smits-Pelser, Marijke C. Kars, et al. (2020). Needs, barriers and facilitators of older adults towards eHealth in general practice: a qualitative study. Primary Health Care Research & Development, 21. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1463423620000547

Needs, barriers and facilitators of older adults towards eHealth in general practice: a qualitative study

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