Experiences of elderly individuals using digital technology for health purposes: A phenomenological study

The purpose of this research is to determine the experiences of elderly individuals using digital technology for health purposes. The research was conducted using a phenomenological design, one of the qualitative research methods. The research was carried out in 6 different family health centers located in the city center of Denizli. The study group consists of 25 elderly individuals. The criterion sampling method, which is one of the purposive sampling methods, was used to determine the participants. The data of the research were gathered by way of face-to-face in-depth interviews using personal information form and interview form. The data were analyzed by the content analysis method using the MAXQDA 2020 program. The data were collected under three main themes: usage areas, factors affecting usage and perceived benefits. It has been determined that older adults use digital technology to search for health information, make doctor's appointments, informative messages, monitor personal health records, promote and improve health, and facilitate regular medication intake. It has been determined that older adults have difficulty using digital technology and need help. It has been determined that the negative perceptions of older adults about digital technology, fears, aging-related changes and economic conditions affect negatively their usage of digital technology for health purposes. The benefits perceived by older adults regarding the use of digital technology for health purposes were determined as providing convenience, saving time, being able to be used in emergencies and increasing physical activity. In line with these results, it is suggested to plan educational programs that will increase the knowledge and skills of elderly individuals regarding the use of digital technology, to address their negative perceptions about the use of digital technology, and to consider age-related changes in digital contents prepared for elderly individuals.