How Technology Is Improving Access and Empowering Older Adults to Embrace Telehealth

Telehealth has significant potential to boost healthcare access for older adults and other populations at higher risk of contracting COVID-19, reports Forbes . It is vital for doctors to ensure their telemedicine platforms are inclusive for users across all age and digital literacy levels. Making users who lack confidence in telehealth more comfortable begins with developing frequently asked questions, video tutorials, and other resources to help them understand the telehealth process, schedule appointments, download apps, and access the platform. Providers also need to help patients overcome problems and to offer technical support within the platform by supplying a phone number and/or button to connect directly with assistance. Telehealth platforms should offer omnichannel support so patients can take appointments from their preferred device. The user journey should be as simple as possible by reducing the number of screens, giving patients clear instructions, and stating why particular information is needed. Accessibility features also should enable patients to see and hear clearly during virtual visits, and passwords should be ditched in favor of digital identity verification.