Factors associated with eHealth use among community dwelling older adults

Background With the proliferation of the internet and the development of internet‐based healthcare interventions, eHealth is expected to be an effective complement to traditional healthcare services. However, without understanding the characteristics of the user population, eHealth itself can isolate older adults. Aim This study aims to identify the characteristics of internet use and the factors associated with eHealth use among older adults. Methods A secondary data analysis was conducted from a cross‐sectional descriptive study. A convenience sample of 186 community dwelling older adults was recruited at two senior welfare centres in Korea. The data collected included demographic characteristics, health related characteristics, internet use, eHealth use and eHealth literacy. Multiple linear regression was utilized to determine factors related to eHealth use. Results Among 186 respondents, 98 reported that they used the internet. Internet usage was associated with educational attainment, marital status, cognitive function and possession of internet‐enabled devices. The results of multiple regression analysis showed that greater eHealth usage was related to more positive perception of eHealth usability and better eHealth literacy among older adults. Conclusion Educational programmes for older adults should be developed to facilitate digital capability and eHealth literacy. Useful and effective online health resources that are easy to use should be also developed. Summary statement What is already known about this topic? With an ageing society, health promotion and management of chronic diseases are becoming increasingly important; thus, the social burden of healthcare is expected to increase. eHealth can help individuals manage chronic disease effectively and promote changing behaviours for better health, but older adults may not be able to use the internet and eHealth. What this paper adds? This paper identified the factors related to internet use in adults aged 65 and over: higher educational level, married/partnered marital status, better cognitive function and possession of internet‐enabled devices. This paper identified factors facilitating eHealth use: older adults who perceived eHealth as more useful and had better eHealth literacy used eHealth more frequently. The implications of this paper: Education for older adults to enhance their skills to use internet‐enabled devices and increase their capability to interpret health‐related information can f