Telehealth Adoption Among Elderly Patients: Barriers and Opportunities in Post-Pandemic Care

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed an unprecedented shift toward telehealth services, offering a lifeline for vulnerable populations, particularly elderly patients. While telehealth adoption expanded rapidly during the pandemic, its continued integration into post-pandemic healthcare systems raises concerns and opportunities. This article explores the barriers elderly patients face in adopting telehealth, including technological literacy, access to devices, cognitive and physical limitations, and concerns about privacy. It also highlights key opportunities to improve elderly care through telehealth by enhancing accessibility, streamlining care coordination, and reducing hospital readmissions. Recommendations for policymakers, healthcare providers, and caregivers are provided to ensure equitable and sustainable telehealth integration for older adults.