Exploring factors affecting the adoption and use of digital health technologies among older adults with cancer: A qualitative study

TL;DR

This study explores why older adults with cancer adopt or struggle to use digital health technologies, identifying key factors that influence their use.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into factors affecting the adoption and continued use of DHTs among older cancer patients.

Findings

Digital access and technology availability influence initial adoption of DHTs.

Perceived ease of use and usefulness drive continued use of DHTs.

Limited use is linked to low digital literacy and concerns about communication quality.

Abstract

Although digital health technologies (DHTs) are promising to improve health outcomes in older adults with cancer, the low adoption and limited use remain significant gaps in their effective digital health care. Little is known about their concerns about adopting and using DHTs in routine life, particularly in the continued use phase. This study aims to explore factors affecting the initial adoption and continued use of DHTs among older adults with cancer.

A secondary analysis of qualitative data was conducted based on interviews with 21 older adults (≥ 65 years) with breast, prostate, lung, or colorectal cancer. The transcripts of interview recordings were analyzed using a thematic analysis.

Three major themes and several subthemes were identified as potential factors affecting the (1) initial adoption, (2) continued use, and (3) limited use of DHTs. Digitalized healthcare systems and access to technology influenced the initial adoption of DHTs. Perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, expected timely care from providers, and increased sense of control emerged as leading factors to the continued use. The limited use of DHTs was influenced by a lack of knowledge and skills, a lack of direct interaction with providers, and concerns about digital communication quality.

Ensuring digital access and providing technology-based solutions that meet diverse patient needs is crucial to promoting the adoption and use of DHTs among older adults with cancer. Healthcare providers should address older adults’ low digital literacy and uncertainty to ensure the quality of cancer care provided through DHTs.