Nutzung von (digitalen) Gesundheitsinformationen zu Präventionsleistungen

In order to make informed health decisions regarding the utilization of preventive services provided by the Statutory Health Insurance, targeted information has the potential to influence preventive behaviour among the elderly population. However, older persons face various challenges when engaging with (digital) health information. This study aimed to investigate information-seeking patterns and individual perception concerning prevention-related information within the elderly population residing in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt.

A setting-based survey was conducted by using a self-administrative questionnaire (n = 98 items) in five elderly and service centres situated in Magdeburg, Saxony-Anhalt. The data were analysed descriptively and by using bivariate analyses (χ² test).

A total of 254 individuals participated in the survey (84% women, mean age 75 years). In all, 39% of the participants showed a high level of ehealth literacy, while 61% exhibited a low level. The majority (94%) feel sufficiently informed about preventive services. The participants predominantly use and trust intrapersonal sources of information (health professionals, relatives) as opposed to internet-based sources of information.

These findings contribute valuable insights into the information-seeking behaviour regarding both analogue and digital prevention-related health information among the elderly population of Saxony-Anhalt. In particular, physicians play a crucial role as a primary source of information from the respondents’ perspective. It can be deduced that lack of trust may impact their utilization of internet-based information sources. Future initiatives should focus on tailored interventions and participatory development of prevention-related information, aiming to enhance both (digital) health literacy and informed decision-making over the long term.