JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The global population aged 60 and above is growing rapidly, posing significant challenges to healthcare and social systems. Amidst the wave of digital transformation, older adults face more pronounced and unique obstacles in participating in and benefiting from health communication. Existing research often focuses on the acceptance or barriers related to digital health technologies, overlooking the specific experiences and needs of individuals within community settings.

Objective:

To synthesize the experiences of older adults engaging in digital health communication within community contexts.

Methods:

We systematically searched PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, ProQuest, and Web of Science Core Collection from their inception until April 2025. Qualitative studies concerning the digital health communication experiences of community-dwelling older adults were included, while purely quantitative studies were excluded. Two researchers independently screened articles against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, appraised the studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool, and extracted qualitative data independently. Data synthesis was conducted using Noblit and Hare's meta-ethnography approach.

Results:

The systematic integration of 10 included studies yielded four key themes. Findings indicate that the objectives of older adults in engaging with community digital health communication encompass obtain or share health information, maintain health, and learn technology to avoid falling behind. Their engagement significantly enhanced health management capabilities, improved access to healthcare services, and increased social participation. Trust mechanisms were primarily built on patient-provider relationships and authoritative platforms. At the same time, accountability reflects the collaboration among multiple stakeholders, despite imbalances such as technological dependency and difficulties in verifying information. The study further identified the dual nature of technology adaptation: social support, patient-provider trust, and technology usability served as key drivers, whereas insufficient digital literacy, technology anxiety, cost constraints, physiological limitations, and privacy concerns constituted significant barriers.

Conclusions:

This study reveals the complex dynamics of digital health communication, shaped by the interplay of community support, technological adaptation, and the evolving needs of older adults. Future research should focus on optimizing older adults' access to and experience with health information through community resources and technological innovation. Through the collaborative efforts of communities, technology, and policy, digital health communication can more effectively serve the older adult population, enhancing their health literacy and quality of life. Clinical Trial: PROSPERO registration number CRD420251002601