The role of telemedicine in enhancing palliative care for older adults: opportunities and challenges

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2025

Authors

Mukamal, RC (Author) Other; Dias, LM (Author) Other; Sarti, TD (Author) Other; Rui Nunes (Author) FMUP; Guilhermina Rego (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: BMC Geriatrics

Vol. 25 No. Article 257

ISSN: 1471-2318

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-019-QRH

DOI: 10.1186/s12877-025-06041-1

Abstract (EN): Background and objectiveTelemedicine holds promise for older adults with chronic and complex conditions, particularly those in need of palliative care. However, more information is needed about the perceptions of patients and their caregivers regarding this technology for providing care. Therefore, this study aims to explore the experience of non-oncologic older adult patients in palliative care with telemedicine.MethodsWe followed Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage scoping review approach and conducted searches in Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Key concepts included: telemedicine or telehealth; elderly or old age or geriatric; palliative care and NO cancer and were included articles written in English or Portuguese from the last five years.ResultsEighteen articles were included out of 137 abstracts selected. Most studies focused on elderly individuals in homebound settings, nursing homes, or long-term care facilities. The experiences reported in many articles were positive, with patients and caregivers expressing a willingness to use telemedicine. It was particularly convenient for patients in rural areas. However, several barriers were identified, such as difficulties in using and accessing technology and concerns about privacy, influencing the willingness to use telemedicine.ConclusionsTelemedicine can be beneficial in the care of older adults with non-oncologic chronic disease, multimorbidity, and life-threatening conditions. Nevertheless, understanding this barrier and searching for solutions from the patients' perspectives is essential for integrating telemedicine into their care. More studies involving older adults palliative care patients are needed to explore this area further.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 15