Internet Use and Digital Technology Needs of Older People Living in Rural Areas-A Sample of Bartın/Türkiye

Abstract

Objective: Supporting older people emerge as an important problem. Encouraging digital health technologies is seen as one of the effective ways to address this problem. This research aims to examine the current status of internet use by older people, the factors affecting this (including physical, psychological, and social aspects), and the demand of older people for smart services. Materials and Methods: The type of the study was determined as a descriptive quantitative study with a sample of 85 individuals aged 65 and over living in villages affiliated with the center of Bart & imath;n, T & uuml;rkiye. Results: While 72.9% of the participants reported that they did not use the internet, 27.1% reported that they used the internet. A significant portion of the participants found the use of smart bracelets and emergency call at home necessary or very necessary. The participants did not find the telemedicine, online health, and online psychosocial counseling applications necessary. Finally, 83.5% of the participants reported that they find the older-friendly smartphone application necessary or very necessary. Conclusion: It is important to take these suggestions into consideration when making technological plans in old age.