Engaging older people in an internet platform for cardiovascular risk self-management: a qualitative study among Dutch HATICE participants. Issue 1 (21st January 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van Middelaar, Tessa; Beishuizen, Cathrien R L; Guillemont, Juliette; Barbera, Mariagnese; Richard, Edo; Moll van Charante, Eric P
• Other Names: author non-byline.; Van gool Willem A author non-byline.; Soininen Hilkka author non-byline.; Kivipelto Miia author non-byline.; Andrieu Sandrine author non-byline.; Brayne Carol author non-byline.; Jongstra Susan author non-byline.; Wanrooij Lennard Van author non-byline.; Hoevenaar-blom Marieke P author non-byline.; Ngandu Tiia author non-byline.; Mangialasche Francesca author non-byline.; Coley Nicola author non-byline.; Meiller Yannick author non-byline.; De groep Bram Van author non-byline.
• Is Part Of: BMJ open. Volume 8:Issue 1(2018)
• Publication Date: 2018-01-21
• Subjects: ehealth -- prevention and control -- primary healthcare -- cardiovascular diseases -- qualitative research -- implementation; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; 610.72
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-019683
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-6055

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: To study older peoples' experiences with an interactive internet platform for cardiovascular self-management, to assess which factors influence initial and sustained engagement. To assess their views on future use within primary care. Design: Qualitative semistructured interview study, with thematic analysis. Setting: Primary care in the Netherlands. Participants: People ≥65 years with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease who used the 'Healthy Ageing Through Internet Counselling in the Elderly' internet platform with remote support of a coach. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method based on gender, age, level of education, cardiovascular history, diabetes, duration of participation and login frequency. Results: We performed 17 interviews with 20 participants, including three couples. In the initial phase, platform engagement was influenced by perceived computer literacy of the participants, user-friendliness, acceptability and appropriateness of the intervention and the initial interaction with the coach. Sustained platform use was mainly facilitated by a relationship of trust with the coach. Other facilitating factors were regular automatic and personal reminders, clear expectations of the platform, incorporation into daily routine, social support and a loyal and persistent attitude. Perceived lack of change in content of the platform could work both stimulating and discouraging. Participants supported the idea of embedding the platform into the primary care setting. Conclusions: Human support is crucial to initial and sustained engagement of older people in using an interactive internet platform for cardiovascular self-management. Regular reminders further facilitate sustained use, and increased tailoring to personal preference is recommended. Embedding the platform in primary healthcare may enhance future adoption. Trial registration number: ISRCTN48151589; Pre-results.