"Willing but Unwilling": Attitudinal barriers to adoption of home-based health information technology among older adults. (June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Young, Rachel; Willis, Erin; Cameron, Glen; Geana, Mugur
• Is Part Of: Health informatics journal. Volume 20:Number 2(2014:Jun.)
• Page Start: 127
• Page End: 135
• Publication Date: 2014-06
• Subjects: Consumer health information -- data security and confidentiality -- ehealth -- electronic health records -- older adults; Medical informatics -- Periodicals; 610.285
• DOI: 10.1177/1460458213486906
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1460-4582

Abstract

While much research focuses on adoption of electronic health-care records and other information technology among health-care providers, less research explores patient attitudes. This qualitative study examines barriers to adoption of home-based health information technology, particularly personal electronic health records, among older adults. We conducted in-depth interviews (30–90 min duration) with 35 American adults, aged 46–72 years, to determine their perceptions of and attitudes toward home-based health information technology. Analysis of interview data revealed that most barriers to adoption fell under four themes: technological discomfort, privacy or security concerns, lack of relative advantage, and perceived distance from the user representation. Based on our findings, systems to promote home-based health information technology should incorporate familiar computer applications, alleviate privacy and security concerns, and align with older adults' active and engaged self-image.