Needs, Interests, and Limitations for the Promotion of Health and Exercise by a Web Site for Sighted and Blind Elderly People: A Qualitative Exploratory Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify needs, interests, and obstacles related to obtaining health education by means of a Web site for elderly people who do not use the Internet. A total of 34 participants were divided into five discussion groups, one of which was made up of blind people. An analysis of the semantic content of the transcriptions of the focal groups' discussions was conducted. Most participants showed a willingness to receive health education (about nutrition, physical exercise, and quality of life) and learn to use the Internet. The main obstacles to the use of the Internet were the lack of free access and the fear of being swindled or becoming addicted to its use. The results suggest that a Web site can be a useful tool for promoting healthy habits such as physical exercise and to increase the circle of friends for normal and blind elderly people.

This study was financed with a grant from the European Social Fund and the Junta (Regional Government) of Extremadura as part of its Regional Research Plan (IPR00B016). Thanks to Yolanda Garcia for her technical support during the interviews.

Notes

∗Expressed as percentage of participants.

∗Expressed as percentage of participants.

∗Expressed as percentage of participants.

∗Expressed as percentage of participants.