TELEPROM-G: A Study Evaluating Access and Care Delivery of Telehealth Services among Community-Based Seniors with Depressive Symptoms

摘要

Depression has been identified as a leading cause of frailty worldwide. Factors which contribute to an effective implementation of Telehealth/eHealth among seniors living with depressive symptoms remain understudied. Research has linked technology-geared mental health care delivery to better healthcare outcomes. Rigorous scientific evidence on the efficacy of ehealth technology, for example smartphone applications, is lacking. The solution tested in this study was a web-based Telemedicine and Client-Reported Outcome Measurement platform, using a Chromebook device. Applying a mixed method design, this pilot study generated valuable insights regarding factors which facilitate positive experiences for seniors participating in an eHealth intervention. Further research studies on the implementation of the platform with seniors appears to be feasible since the present study was able to successfully recruit 30 client participants and retain 87% until the end of study. Results related to participants' perceptions of the smart technology suggest device features need modification to facilitate older adults' comfort with the platform.