152 A Program to Deliver Education in Digital Literacy to Create Equity for Elders

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Older adults are affected by insufficient access to digital technology including digital healthcare. The aim of this program is to improve digital literacy in elders who were not using digital devices due to age and socioeconomic inequities. We provided technology and education on topics relevant but not limited to navigating health care. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Through partnerships with a non-profit organization helping elders to age well and independently (cohort 1 ongoing n=9) and an urban place of worship (cohort 2 starting), we reached out to elders residing in urban Buffalo, NY’s poorest zip codes. Participants received free tablets and Wi-fi hotspots. Participants received weekly interactive sessions over 6 months at their apartments or a place they felt comfortable with. A curriculum was developed but the sessions were not limited to digital health care, rather were also tailored to other individual needs like shopping on line, communication with loved ones, etc. A baseline, mid and post survey were administered to assess needs before the program and measure the impact of the program. An effort was also deployed in identifying a source of connectivity post program. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: The participants were elders who did not have computer/digital knowledge and/or access to the digital world. Mid-intervention data show that 9/9 used the tablets, learned basic skills and felt more comfortable/confident using a digital device. 5/9 participants used their hotspots and the remaining learned to use Wi-Fi provided by the facility they live in. While at baseline only 1/9 participants had attempted to use patient portals, mid-intervention data showed that 8/9 accessed portals. Importantly, the participants are also using other digital functions essential to their well-being including streaming, shopping, bill paying, and communicating with loved ones. Preliminary post-surveys suggest that all participants now rate their internet literacy and web searching skills at an acceptable/good level. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Tailored support and access to technology led to uptake of digital technology among elders, enabling them to access health-related resources and other web activities which improved their quality of life and led to digital equity. This project can be leveraged to obtain funding to train trusted members of the community as digital literacy ambassadors.