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Rural Health Information Hub
Rural Health Information Hub

Technology for Rural Healthy Aging Programs

Implementing a program to support healthy aging is likely to require some investment in technology. This may be used to help connect older adults with one another, the community, and long-distance friends and family members. For example, older adults may use the internet and mobile devices to communicate with others from a distance, using text messaging or video calls. They may also engage via social media to foster new relationships, connect with others, and learn about events and resources in their community.

Telehealth technology and remote home monitoring may also help improve access to healthcare. However, in rural areas, it is also important to consider the availability of broadband connectivity, which is more limited in rural areas. For more information on telehealth in rural areas, see the Telehealth and Health Information Technology in Rural Healthcare topic guide and the Rural Telehealth Toolkit.

Implementing a program using technology for healthy aging requires an initial and ongoing investment, including funds for purchasing of technology, such as laptops, mobile devices, and internet routers, and ongoing hardware maintenance and software updates. For older adults and program staff, rural healthy aging programs should consider:

  • Investing in staff who can help to install, manage, and troubleshoot any issues related to technology
  • Training for staff and providers who will interact with technology
  • Education for older adults and their caregivers and loved ones who will use the technology
  • Affordability of technology

Combined with limited access in rural areas, lack of digital literacy can prevent rural older adults from using computers or smartphones to communicate with friends and family. This can also create barriers to healthcare, such as telehealth visits or completing forms on a tablet in a clinic. Programs should consider program participants' experience, knowledge, and confidence using technology; any barriers to technology; and flexible modes of communication and program delivery.

Resources to Learn More

Computer Skills
Website
Shares links to articles, workshops, and other resources to help older adults learn and enhance their digital skills.
Organization(s): AARP

The National Consortium of Telehealth Resource Centers
Website
Serves as a federally funded collaborative consisting of 12 regional telehealth resource centers (TRCs) and 2 national TRCs that provide resources, technical assistance, and learning opportunities to assist healthcare organizations, networks, and providers working to implement or improve telehealth programs that serve rural and medically underserved areas.