Abstract:
Introduction: With the rapid advancement of digital health technologies, digital symptom management tools (DSMTs) have emerged as promising interventions to support self-management of cancer-related symptoms. These tools offer real-time monitoring and personalized feedback, potentially enhancing patient autonomy and reducing healthcare utilization. However, the adoption and effectiveness of DSMTs among older adults, especially those living in metropolitan areas of China, remain underexplored.
Objectives: To explore the experiences and perceptions of metropolitan-dwelling older adults with cancer in China regarding the use of digital symptom management tools.
Methodology: The current study utilized descriptive qualitative research methodology, adopting the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as the theoretical framework. Purposive sampling was used to recruit older adults with cancer from several care facilities in Hangzhou. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using directed content analysis.
Results: A purposive sample of 14 older adults with cancer in Hangzhou was recruited until data saturation was reached. Analyses yielded four themes and eight sub-themes: performance expectancy: symptom-specific utility and cultural relevance (real-time symptom monitoring, reduction of cancer-related isolation), effort expectancy: technological barriers in cancer management (digital literacy barriers, training deficiencies), social influence: support networks in cancer management(family-mediated support, professional endorsement), facilitating conditions: technological and systemic enablers (digital infrastructure variability exacerbated inequities, policy gaps limited reimbursement and integration).
Conclusions: The research explored how older urban cancer patients in China perceive and engage with digital symptom management tools. This study provides empirical support for the promotion and application of digital symptom management tools for older adults with cancer, which is important for promoting active policies toward aging.
