Assessing the eHealth Literacy Skills of Older Adults: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the ability of older adults (ages 55–69) to access, use, and understand online health information, known as eHealth literacy skills. Forty-eight older adults (mean age range = 60–65 years) participated. Participants’ expressed low confidence in their perceived ability to evaluate the quality of health web sites (48%, n = 23) and apply the information retrieved in making health-related decisions (52%, n = 25). Potential avenues for promoting user confidence to retrieve trustworthy health information could support the eHealth literacy skills in this population.

KEYWORDS:

• Geriatrics
• health behavior
• well-being

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge Ryerson University's 50+ programs for older adults and Better Living Health and Wellness Centre for supporting the recruitment for this study. The authors would also like to acknowledge the Faculty of Community Services, Ryerson University, for the financial support of E. Manafòs Research Associate position.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Elizabeth Manafò

Elizabeth Manafò, MHSc ([email protected]) is a research associate in the School of Nutrition, Ryerson University, and is a registered dietitian. Her research focuses on eHealth literacy and older adults. Sharon Wong, PhD ([email protected]), is an associate professor for the School of Nutrition, Ryerson University, and is a registered dietitian. Her research focuses on knowledge translation and seniors.