Preparing older adults for telehealth
Older adults have unique needs and advantages to using telehealth.
Technology basics
It is important to help prepare your older patients for a telehealth visit:
- Find out about your patient’s technology. If your patient doesn’t have a device, they may need to have an audio-only visit.
- Set expectations. Assign a staff member to contact the patient before the telehealth visit.
Tip: Share resources with your older patients. This can help your patient know what to expect and what to do if they have problems.
Support during telehealth visits
Your older patients may need help during the telehealth visit. Consider the following:
- Enlist help from a caregiver. Before the visit, ask your patient if they would like a caregiver present. A support person can help the patient get online and troubleshoot issues.
- Use tools for cognitive and sensory impairments. Older patients may benefit from digital health tools. These tools are important to ensure equal access to telehealth. This may include screen readers, transcription, or closed captioning.
Limited technology access
If your patient does not have access to reliable internet, it is important to be flexible. You may consider an audio-only appointment or messages through a patient portal.
Tip: Tell your patients about Lifeline. This is a federal government program that helps eligible households pay for internet services and internet connected devices.
More information
Health equity in telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration
Improving access to telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration
Preparing patients for telehealth — Health Resources and Services Administration
Telehealth for individuals with communication disabilities (PDF) — Health Resources and Services Administration