Objective:

synthesize the available knowledge on the contribution of information and communication technologies to active and healthy ageing.

Methodology:

GERION database from the Virtual Library of the Public Health System of Andalusia was used in the first search phase. In the second phase, a search was performed using Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SciELO, MedlinePlus, and Science Direct. Natural language and controlled language descriptors were used. Studies published in Spanish and English in the period January 2013 to January 2018 were included. Qualitative metasynthesis was carried out.

Results:

262 studies were selected; 240 were excluded due to: duplication, not meeting the inclusion criteria, missing the full text, or not related to the object of study. 22 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. From the identification of emerging issues and their grouping into categories, a conceptual model was constructed that explains the relationship between active and healthy ageing and technological innovation.

Conclusions:

Information and communication technologies contribute to the empowerment of people for self-care; improve their self-efficacy; help maintain their autonomy in decision-making; favor their effective participation in health and care systems; and contribute to the democratization of health. Its use is conditioned by the commitment and involvement of older people in its design, adaptation to the environments and preferences of the user, its simplicity, comprehensibility, perceived utility and ease of use.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )