Community-based E-Health Program for Older Adults Living With Chronic Diseases (CeHP)

Community-based E-Health Program for Older Adults Living With Chronic Diseases - A Cluster Randomized Controlled Study With Process Evaluation

With increased aging population, there is a higher rate of having chronic diseases and cognitive impairment. In order to achieve successful aging, it is important for community-dwelling older adults to perform better self-management with improved health literacy and various kinds of support. The study aims to develop a Community-based E-Health Program (CeHP) for Older Adults Living with Chronic Diseases , evaluate the effectiveness of CeHP, and refine the program based on the outcome measurement. A cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be adopted. A follow-up process evaluation will be conducted to assess the acceptability, strengths and limitations of CeHP based on the participants' perspectives. The research contributes to engage and empower older adults living in the community to manage their chronic condition, and foster collaboration with the goal of translating evidence into action.

Background: With increased aging population, there is a higher rate of having chronic diseases and cognitive impairment. In order to achieve successful aging, it is important for community-dwelling older adults to perform better self-management with improved health literacy and various kinds of support. Objectives: The study aims to develop a Community-based E-Health Program (CeHP), evaluate the effectiveness of CeHP, and refine the program based on the outcome measurement. Method: The research team will develop the Community-based E-Health Program, and assess the effects of the program. A needs assessment will be carried out using focus group discussion with the older adults. A cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be adopted. A follow-up process evaluation will be conducted to assess the acceptability, strengths and limitations of Community-based E-Health Program based on the participants' perspectives Discussion and conclusion: The proposed research contributes to engage and empower older adults living in the community to manage their chronic condition, and foster collaboration with the goal of translating evidence into action. This research will offer important insights into the need for educating and engaging older adults in managing chronic conditions to promote health and well-being, and therefore contribute to health and well-being of the elderly population.

The intervention group will consist of 80 participants who will engage in Community-based E-Health Program.

Community-based E-Health Program will be developed to engage and empower older adults to manage the chronic conditions effectively.

Health Literacy Scale, minimum value is 12, maximum value is 48, higher scores mean a better outcome.

Inclusion Criteria: aged 55 or above; able to understand and communicate in either English or Mandarin; able to give consent to participate; lives within the community setting; diagnosed with chronic conditions (Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, and Diabetes Mellites); 6) able to commit to five-hour learning. Exclusion Criteria: severe cognitive impairment; severe psychiatric disorders; severe vision impairment; severe hearing impairment.

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