User experiences of digital health interventions among older adults with cancer: a systematic review of qualitative data

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• P Value: Not applicable for qualitative synthesis

• Effect Size: Not applicable for qualitative synthesis

• Primary Outcome: Three main themes: positive experiences, barriers to use, and user expectations

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: Thematic saturation achieved across 12 qualitative studies

• Confidence Interval: Not applicable for qualitative synthesis

Clinical Application

Findings suggest mixed feasibility with significant barriers requiring targeted support Relevant to Australian cancer care given aging population and increasing digital health adoption; aligns with TGA digital therapeutics framework and RACGP digital health guidelines Older adults with cancer considering or using digital health interventions

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of this review was to synthesize and analyze the results of several qualitative studies to understand the perceptions of older adults with cancer using digital health interventions to manage cancer in a digital context. METHODS: Six databases were systematically queried to identify qualitative studies of digital health interventions in older cancer populations, published from the inception of the databases until December 10, 2024. Studies that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected, and the quality of the literature was assessed according to established guidelines. The results were synthesized using a thematic synthesis approach. RESULTS: A total of 12 papers were included. Three analytic themes emerged, (1) positive experiences, (2) barriers to use, (3) user expectations. The first theme was with three descriptive themes, including "improved self-management," "safe and accessible support," and "better access to health information"; the second theme with three descriptive themes, including "inadequate content design," "technical difficulties," and negative user perceptions and behaviors"; the third theme with two descriptive themes: "enhanced functionality" and "optimized user experience." CONCLUSIONS: This study found that older adults with cancer recognize the benefits of digital health Interventions in improving their health. However, their experiences are influenced by various factors. Patients expressed diverse needs regarding the functionality, information support, and social support aspects of digital health interventions.

References

1. 1.Zhang, J., Son, Y., Jiang, Y., Wang, Q., Luo, L., Xie, J., & Tao, M. (2026). User experiences of digital health interventions among older adults with cancer: a systematic review of qualitative data. Supportive Care in Cancer. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10823-014-9255-4