Designing Telemedicine for Older Adults With Multimorbidity: Content Analysis Study

Abstract

Background Telemedicine is a potential option for caring for older adults with multimorbidity. There is a need to explore the perceptions about telemedicine among older adults with multimorbidity to tailor it to the needs of older adults with multiple chronic conditions. Objective This study aims to explore the perceptions about telemedicine among older patients with multimorbidity. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using semistructured interviews. The interview questions examined older adults’ perspectives about telemedicine, including their expectations regarding telemedicine services and the factors that affect its use. Thematic analysis was performed using NVivo (version 12; Lumivero). The study was reported using the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines. Results In total, 29 patients with multimorbidity—21 (72%) female patients and 8 (28%) male patients with a mean age of 69 (SD 10.39) years—were included. Overall, 4 themes and 7 subthemes emerged: theme 1—perceived benefit of telemedicine among older adults with multimorbidities, theme 2—appropriate use of telemedicine for multimorbid care, theme 3—telemedicine system catering to the needs of older patients, and theme 4—respect patients’ decision to decline to use telemedicine. Conclusions Telemedicine for older adults with multimorbidity should focus on those with stable conditions. This can help increase access to care for those requiring continuous condition monitoring. A structured telemedicine program and patient-centered services can help increase patient acceptance of telemedicine. However, health care providers must accept the limitations of older patients that may prevent them from receiving telemedicine services.

Telemedicina Na Assistência À Saúde Do Idoso E Perspectivas Para a Coordenação Do Cuidado Digital No Brasil

“…Os cuidados de saúde para essa faixa etária devem levar em conta suas habilidades e limitações, tanto em atendimentos presenciais quanto por telemedicina. Os profissionais de saúde precisam estar preparados para identificar e superar obstáculos tecnológicos, sociais e de saúde que possam dificultar o acesso aos serviços de telemedicina, garantindo soluções adaptadas e personalizadas para todos os pacientes, independentemente da modalidade de consulta (BUAWANGPONG et al, 2024).…”