Use of a telehealth system by older adults with hypertension.

Overview

We conducted a feasibility study of a home telehealth system that monitored blood pressure and bodyweight. A total of 34 participants with hypertension (10 males and 24 females) had the telemedicine system installed in their homes. Their mean age was 72 years and 94% of them self-identified as Hispanic. The telehealth system transmitted blood pressure and bodyweight data to a server. There was also a messaging function that was used to send a daily reminder to the participants. Participants used the telehealth system for six months. Ten participants were lost to follow up and 24 participants completed the entire study. Participants had strong positive perceptions regarding the usability and usefulness of the telemedicine system. Most of them (92%) found the device easy to use and 96% felt that the training they received prepared them to use the device. The providers indicated that use of the system improved their ability to manage their patients. The results of the study suggest that use of the telehealth system for home monitoring in Hispanic patients with hypertension is feasible.