Background

Digital technologies have played an important role in health and social care in recent years, but this has been limited to a few key areas.

People can make GP appointments and order repeat prescriptions through online services, as well as access NHS111 advice online.

In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, the social/physical distancing measures have meant many more health services have moved online.

A growing number of older people are able to access services with digital technology, but this is not the case for everyone. Those who are not able to access health and care services may be at a disadvantage both during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the future.

Aims and objectives

The purpose of our review was to understand how much digital technologies can support older adults to access health and care services, looking at two key questions:

• Do digital technologies improve access to health and social care for older people?
• What are the key elements of successful digital technologies that help older people access health and social care services?

Resources and further information

• Webinar recording: Can Digital Technologies Enhance Peoples Access to health and Social Care (YouTube).
• Publication: Effects of Digital Technologies on Older People’s Access to Health and Social Care: Umbrella Review (JMIR Publications).

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