Senior Health Goes Electronic

Abstract

Abstract Senior citizens are increasingly seeking answers to their medical questions. They are aware of Internet resources, but need assistance in locating authoritative and reliable electronic-based health information. In response to this need, a partnership was formed in San Diego to develop a “Senior Health Project for Access to Electronic Health Information.” The partners are the medical library of the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, a church-based Seniors Clinic, and a Senior Community Center. The project has five objectives: (1) to implement a health information access network relationship with these partners; (2) to provide computer training workshops on electronic information resources for seniors at the center sites; (3) to provide consumer health information support for senior citizens through an enhanced Web site and pertinent National Library of Medicine (NLM) resource links; (4) to teach access to full-text databases and extend Document Delivery/Loansome Doc services to the project partners; and (5) to evaluate and measure project outcomes, including promotion of NLM resources and value-added services to improve Internet access for seniors. Technically, this partnership includes use of wireless communication, laptops, and Web site resources for seniors. Because the project commenced recently, in September 2004, this paper emphasizes planning, acquiring funding, progress to date, and initial experiences in organizing and establishing a unique community-based library service. A future paper will cover the project outcomes and results. Key Words: Wireless communicationcommunity outreachsenior healthseniorselectronic accessalternative and complementary medicineacupunctureOriental medicine