Telehealth Adoption Among Saudi Older Adults: A Qualitative Analysis of Utilization and Barriers

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The rapid adoption of telehealth services has been significantly accelerated by the need for accessible healthcare solutions, especially among older adults. However, the utilization of telehealth remains limited in many regions, including Saudi Arabia. This study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators influencing telehealth adoption among older adults in Riyadh. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with 25 participants aged 60 and above. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyze the data, allowing for the identification of key themes related to participants’ experiences with telehealth services. Results: Four main themes emerged from the analysis: access to technology and connectivity, attitudes toward telehealth, support systems, and institutional and policy factors. Participants reported challenges such as low digital literacy and unreliable Internet access, along with the need for trust in healthcare providers. Family support and the desire for training resources were highlighted as important facilitators of telehealth utilization. Conclusions: The findings indicate that addressing barriers such as digital literacy and connectivity is crucial for enhancing telehealth utilization among older adults. Implementing strategies that promote education, strengthen support systems, and improve policy frameworks is essential for facilitating greater engagement with telehealth services in this demographic.