Comparing Factors Associated With eHealth Literacy Between Young and Older Adults

J Gerontol Nurs. 2020 Aug 1;46(8):46-56. doi: 10.3928/00989134-20200707-02.

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to compare the factors associated with adults' eHealth literacy, which is vital for health consumers. A secondary data analysis was conducted with data collected from November 2017 to February 2018 for a project on the development of a Korean version of the eHealth Literacy Scale. Participants were recruited through an online survey for young adults (n = 210, mean age = 25.5 [SD = 4.7] years) and a face-to-face survey for older adults (n = 187, mean age = 73.2 [SD = 4.8] years). Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to analyze data and determine eHealth literacy predictors. Older adults held more positive attitudes toward internet health information than young adults (mean = 16.49 [SD = 2.54] and 17.04 [SD = 2.41], respectively; p = 0.029); however, eHealth literacy levels were comparable (mean = 30.50 [SD = 4.62] and 30.95 [SD = 4.17], respectively; p = 0.305). Attitude toward internet health information was a significant predictor of eHealth literacy in both groups, and age was only a predictor among young adults. These results elucidate predictors of eHealth literacy and inform strategies to improve eHealth literacy among young and older adults. [Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 46(8), 46-56.].

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Female
  • Health Literacy / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Male
  • Republic of Korea
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Telemedicine / statistics & numerical data*
  • Young Adult