Older People Using e-Health Services—Exploring Frequency of Use and Associations with Perceived Benefits for Spouse Caregivers

Journal Title: Informatics - Year 2016, Vol 3, Issue 3

Abstract

ICT, information- and communication technologies, and e-health services are essential for meeting future care demands. Greater knowledge regarding the implementation of e-health services in long-term care for older people is needed. The purpose of the study was to explore older people’s use of e-health services and associations between frequency of use and perceived benefits. In the longitudinal comparative intervention study (n = 65), intervention group participants (n = 42) used an e-health service for 1.5 years. A control group (n = 23) used similar services provided in a traditional manner. Data was collected through questionnaires and analyzed using linear and logistic regressions. Although general use of the Internet was similar in both groups, the e-health group perceived significantly higher benefits. The component information- and education programs, developed specifically for the e-health service, had the highest association with benefits. Conclusion: e-health services targeted at supporting older people who care for a spouse at home can provide benefits which most likely will not be obtained without participation in an organized e-service. Care professionals play an essential role in encouraging spouse caregivers to become e-service users.

Authors and Affiliations

Madeleine Blusi, Mats Jong and Rolf Dalin

Keywords

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  • EP ID EP44058
  • DOI https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics3030015
  • Views 217
  • Downloads 0

How To Cite

Madeleine Blusi, Mats Jong and Rolf Dalin (2016). Older People Using e-Health Services—Exploring Frequency of Use and Associations with Perceived Benefits for Spouse Caregivers. Informatics, 3(3), -. https://europub.co.uk/articles/-A-44058