Factors Influencing Older Adults Use of Technology

Authors: Natalia Soldinger , Leandra Kalra

Field of Study: Biological Sciences

Program Affiliation: Motion Analysis Research Lab

Faculty Mentors: Vipul Lugade

Easel: 79

Timeslot: Midday

Abstract: Technology’s application to healthcare offers opportunities for patients to view their health information online. Despite typically being the population with the most health complications, older adults face barriers to using such technologies. This study aims to identify specific barriers older adults face when navigating technology and to evaluate factors that could make a healthcare dashboard more accessible. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven adults (55+ years) who previously participated in a fall risk study. Participants shared their experience using technology and interacted with a custom-developed dashboard showing biometric fall risk data through simple visualizations and longitudinal trends. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using thematic coding. Results indicated themes of routine technology use, knowledge-related barriers, and access-related barriers. Participants spoke positively of websites with clear interfaces and instructions. These findings suggest that simplicity may reduce barriers to older adults' engagement in their online health information.