Online Advanced Release
Older Adults’ and Case Managers’ Initial Impressions of Community-Based Telehealth Kiosks

Research in Gerontological Nursing 

Karen L. Courtney, PhD, RN; Jennifer H. Lingler, PhD, FNP; Laurel Person Mecca, MA; Laurie A. Garlock, BBA; Richard Schulz, PhD; Andrew W. Dick, PhD; and Ellen Olshansky, DNSc, RNC, FAAN

Received: February 19, 2009; Accepted: December 9, 2009; Posted: May 28, 2010

Community-based (multi-user) telehealth interventions may be beneficial for older adults, but there is little research regarding such interventions. As a first step in feasibility assessment, we used a qualitative descriptive approach to examine the acceptability and perceived value of community-based telehealth kiosks with regard to current health self-management practices of community-dwelling older adults. Participants included residents (n = 6) and community agency case managers (n = 3) of a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-subsidized senior apartment building. Both positive impressions from and concerns of each group are presented. Findings helped guide plans for future telehealth kiosk implementation and training.

doi:10.3928/19404921-20100504-03