Older adults' use of patient portals: Experiences, challenges, and suggestions shared through discussion board forums

Patient portals (PPs) are robust health IT programs that engage and empower patients in their care. Although PPs can benefit older adults who manage chronic conditions, their use of PPs have been largely overlooked and little training has been provided to them. Previously, our research team developed an older-adult-friendly Theory-based PP eLearning Program (T-PeP) and tested its impact on older adults with chronic conditions. As part of T-PeP, participants used discussion forums. The aim of this study was to explore older adults’ experiences with using PPs, perceived impact of PP on their health, and suggestions for improvement through analysis of discussion posts. A total of 205 posts were subjected to content analysis. Findings from 10 major themes explained older adults’ experiences with PPs and offered suggestions for vendors and healthcare organizations. As U.S. population is aging, older adults must be considered during the development and implementation of health IT programs.