Multi-site videoconferencing for home-based education of older people with chronic conditions: the Telehealth Literacy Project

Abstract

We examined the acceptability of multi-site videoconferencing as a method of providing group education to older people in their homes. There were 9 groups comprising 52 participants (mean age 73 years) with an average of four chronic conditions. Tablet computers or PCs were installed in participant's homes and connected to the Internet by the National Broadband Network (high-speed broad band network) or by the 4G wireless network. A health literacy and self-management programme was delivered by videoconference for 5 weeks. Participants were able to view and interact with all group members and the facilitator on their devices. During the study, 44 group videoconferences were conducted. Evaluation included 16 semi-structured interviews, 3 focus groups and a journal detailing project implementation. The participants reported enjoying home-based group education by videoconference and found the technology easy to use. Using home-based groups via videoconference was acceptable for providing group education, and considered particularly valuable for people living alone and/or with limited mobility. Audio difficulties were the most commonly reported problem. Participants connected with 4G experienced more problems (audio and visual) than participants on the National Broadband Network and those living in multi-dwelling residences reported more problems than those living in single-dwelling residences. Older people with little computer experience can be supported to use telehealth equipment. Telehealth has the potential to improve access to education about chronic disease self-management.

Experiences from using eHealth in contact with health care among older adults with cognitive impairment

“…A study focusing on videoconferencing for providing group education to older adults with chronic conditions found that telehealth services had the potential to improve literacy about chronic disease self‐management. Participants with little computer experience received support using the telehealth equipment . This may indicate that some participants in the current study with organised support could obtain eHealth literacy also at steps 2 and 3.…”

Can videoconferencing affect older people's engagement and perception of their social support in long-term conditions management: a social network analysis from the Telehealth Literacy Project

“…It can also be an efficient mode of delivering group support to elderly people in rural areas. While developing interventions for older people using new technology is often considered difficult (Jang-Jaccard et al 2014), our study demonstrates that older people can be supported in using customised tablets and videoconferencing which provides realtime interactions and is inclusive of older people with limited or no prior use of computing (Banbury et al 2014a, Nancarrow et al 2014.…”

“…), our study demonstrates that older people can be supported in using customised tablets and videoconferencing which provides real‐time interactions and is inclusive of older people with limited or no prior use of computing (Banbury et al . , Nancarrow et al . ).…”

Instructing Students How to Use Evidence-based Technology Interventions with Older Adults

“…In addition to learning styles, another aspect to consider is the health literacy of clients to ensure there is adequate training and support for the recommended technology (Banbury et al, 2014). Many healthcare professionals provide written educational materials to clients, but they do not take into account the clients' reading level or health literacy (Banbury et al, 2014). The United States Department of Health and Human Services (2000) and Healthy People 2010 describe health literacy as the ability to comprehend basic health information required to make decisions regarding their healthcare.…”