Study Shows Increased Adoption of Digital Health Technologies Among Older Adults in the US
Recent research published in JAMA Network Open has revealed that a growing number of adults aged 50 to 80 in the United States are embracing digital health technologies (DHTs) to manage their healthcare needs. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan and Veteran Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, analyzed data from over 2,100 participants and found that patient portals are leading the way in adoption rates.
Disparities in Usage
While the study highlighted a significant increase in DHT usage among older adults, it also uncovered disparities driven by factors such as race, income, education, and geography. For example, while 81 percent of older adults reported using at least one form of DHT, there were notable differences in adoption rates among different demographic groups.
Younger participants in the 50 to 59 age range were more likely to embrace digital health tools compared to those aged 60 and older. Additionally, women were found to be more active users of DHTs than men.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities
One of the most concerning findings of the study was the significant gap in DHT usage among different racial and ethnic groups. Only 11% of Black respondents and 12% of Hispanic respondents reported using DHTs, in contrast to 70% of white respondents. Researchers attributed these disparities to factors such as medical mistrust, language barriers, and systemic inequities.
Socioeconomic Factors and Access Challenges
The study also highlighted how socioeconomic factors influenced adoption patterns, with older adults with higher incomes and educational attainment more likely to engage with digital health tools. Urban residents were also found to have higher adoption rates compared to their rural counterparts, where limited broadband access remains a challenge.
Addressing the Digital Divide
Health systems like Michigan’s Henry Ford Health are actively working to bridge the digital divide in healthcare and ensure equitable access to DHTs for all older adults. By expanding access to these technologies, healthcare providers can empower older adults to take a more active role in managing their health, enhance preventative care, and support aging in place.
Furthermore, the integration of AI-powered care navigation platforms can help guide senior patients through complex healthcare systems, addressing barriers such as isolation, transportation, and financial constraints.
Promoting Inclusion and Equity
While older adults are increasingly turning to digital health technologies for enhanced care and self-management, ageist beliefs and practices continue to perpetuate a “digital health divide.” Efforts are needed to promote inclusion in research, clinical practice, and training to ensure that all older adults have equal access to these transformative tools.
Overall, addressing these disparities is crucial for improving healthcare outcomes and advancing health equity for all older adults across the United States.
