Promoting Self-determined and Informed use of Personal Health Records (PHR) among Older Adults: Assessment of Attitudes Towards the PHR and Requirements for an eLearning Platform

Abstract

BackgroundIntegration and implementation of Personal Health Records (PHR) in the healthcare system offers the opportunity for improved care for patients. Older adults, who often face a larger number of chronic diseases, could particularly benefit from a transparent and improved healthcare process. However, confident and self-determined use of a PHR requires a high degree of digital and content-related competence. At the same time, older adults may have little experience of using digital technology. This study aimed to assess the attitudes of older adults towards the PHR and their requirements for development of an eLearning platform designed to enable older adults to use the PHR. MethodsTo answer the research questions, semi-structured interviews with older adults (aged ≥ 65 years) were conducted. A focus group was also set up, consisting of older adults. Sociodemographic data, previous knowledge about the PHR and willingness to use technology were additionally collected by using standardized validated questionnaires and self-developed questionnaires. ResultsWhile previous knowledge about the PHR was relatively low within the study population, general attitudes towards the PHR were mostly positive. The study participants mainly expressed hope for improved care, such as better communication and avoidance of duplicate examinations. At the same time, the potentially large amount of data in the system, as well as possible incomprehensibility of the content, were mentioned as concerning factors. In terms of requirements for the eLearning platform, usability was the aspect most frequently mentioned by the participants. The subjects emphasized that the platform should consider the requirements of older adults in particular. In terms of content, help with the use of the PHR and information about its general conception, as well as access authorization, were named. ConclusionWhile the general attitude of older adults towards the PHR was relatively positive, there is a high demand for an eLearning platform enabling the target group to successfully use the PHR. Such a platform could facilitate implementation of the PHR and help older adults to actively participate in their healthcare. During development, the specific needs of the target group should be considered to ensure accessibility and usability.

Evaluation of an E-learning Platform Promoting Electronic Personal Health Record Competence: A Pilot Study in Older Adults

“…For this reason, the following study will examine knowledge gains and increases in skill among people aged 50 years and over, following use of the high-delity prototype of the e-learning platform, ePA Coach. Prior work has tested its interface and usability, but the actual impact on competence remains unknown (10). By using the learning platform, users can acquire the content and skills needed for sovereign use of the German ePHR by both young-old adults (YOA, ages 50-64 years) and OA (ages 65 + years).…”

“…Digital training strengthens selfe cacy, knowledge and competence, factors that are vital for the sustained use of eHealth technologies long-term (18,22). In this domain, digital literacy education, in particular, aims to cultivate perceptions of self-e cacy and competence, core determinants of both initial and continued engagement with eHealth solutions (4, 20, 23) as well as ePHR systems over time (10,23). Baartman and de Bruijn ( 24) consider competence to be de ned by the factors of skill, knowledge and attitude.…”