An examination of the self-rated health of older adults to determine if the internet influences personal health.

摘要

Older people are living longer, but many are experiencing chronic conditions because of age, and a weakening of the immune system. Use of the internet and e-Health can assist older people to manage and cope with chronic conditions since this technology enables an understanding and care for disease in the privacy of the home by way of computer/internet. Internet and e-Health supplies the tools for self-management, which include interactive behavioral tools, varied web sites and search engines. These mediums also place less stress on the finances of older adults who many times are living on a fixed income. E-Health tools are convenient and accessible, and allow older adults to experience better health and well-being. This study looks to the perceptions and health-seeking behaviors of older adults who have access to computer/internet technology. Also, this study examines whether older adults who use the internet and e-Health regularly experience enhanced personal health due to internet use. This study also examines whether a higher level of health knowledge is found through use of the internet. Eight older-adult participants completed interview-questionnaires that focused on the personal use of the internet for health-related activities. The purpose of the study was to determine if in the view of older adults, enhanced personal health and health literacy was made possible through the internet and e-Health. Perceptions, beliefs, opinions, and experiences were displayed on a variety of health-related topics. Participants felt that the internet helped to gain a handle on disease symptoms, insight into personal illnesses, new and alternative treatments, and to monitor the decisions of a personal health-care provider. However, with the exception of one older-adult who voiced that personal health has been stabilized due to the use of the internet; participants relied on a personal physician, but also checked the actions of this person. Nevertheless, the results of the study indicated that participants did not attribute the internet as the reason for improved or poor health.