Need and Potential Use of Telemedicine in Two Rural Areas

Abstract

ABSTRACT Using technology as a way to ensure Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) as an option for older adults in rural areas is of increasing interest as a result of the pandemic. Literature suggests older adults do not adopt telehealth and/or medicine practices due to barriers and do not use telemedicine as a form of communication with medical staff. This study evaluates the potential for telehealth/medicine use in rural communities through two case studies of older persons (N = 176) age 65+ aging in place in the Eastern Plains of Colorado (n = 88) and rural Western Nebraska (n = 88). Demographic data collection is followed by nominal data collection (yes/no) for telehealth exposure, use, and potential. Two separate open-ended, qualitative questions seeking further details are subsequently asked. Results from the convenience sample indicate that the main themes emanating from older persons responding to telehealth/medicine interview questions include support for its potential use with some using teleconferencing, health portals, along with the expectation that telehealth/medicine would be part of new health care systems. These findings provide evidence that older adults residing in rural areas need to be trained with a certain set of technology skills, which allows for the breaking of barriers toward the use and recognized value of telemedicine. Agencies supporting rural older adults must emphasize this form of training within the framework of service offerings especially for the older adult who has poor technological capacity. Lack of awareness for such services inhibits service use, thereby impacting overall well-being.