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Title of the thesis: eHealth Services for Older Adults: Exploring Experiences and User Needs for Design

Thesis defender: Paula Valkonen 
Opponent: Professor Lisette J.E.W.C. van Gemert-Pijnen, University of Twente, Netherlands
Custos: Professor Marko Nieminen, Aalto University School of Science

Health services are often provided digitally, but the ageing population faces difficulties when using eHealth services. By paying attention to the experiences and older adults’ needs, designers and developers can prevent challenging situations in the use of eHealth services. The dissertation collects the experiences and needs of older adults related to eHealth services and compiles preliminary design recommendations using human-centred design (HCD). The study considers what kind of user needs and design recommendations we identify in everyday life. What kinds of experiences do older adults have with current eHealth services? What kinds of user needs do older adults have regarding eHealth services? How should eHealth services be designed for older adults?

The study combines the research areas of eHealth and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). The study includes both qualitative sub-studies and a multi-method survey study. A total of 559 representatives of the ageing population participated in the studies, that were organized remotely.

According to the study, the needs, expectations and potential challenges of an ageing population, but also the benefits of eHealth services, are influenced by the varying life situation. eHealth services should therefore comprehensively adapt to life situation and expectations. Peak experiences, i.e. experiences that are most memorable, affect whether older adults want to continue using eHealth services. Positive peak experiences are gained when the older adult feels getting enough eHealth services’ use support, or when the life situation and health situation are taken into account. The service could provide essential content for the specific situation, such as support to maintain health, or transparency to monitor one's own health. eHealth services are just one of many service channels; face-to-face communication channels are appreciated, but electronic service enables, for example, the easy appointment booking. All in all, it is hoped that eHealth services will become an integral part of everyday life.

Keywords: Older adults, Aging, eHealth, eHealth services, HCI, HCD, User Needs, Emotional Experiences, Design Recommendations

Contact information: paula.valkonen@aalto.fi 

Thesis available for public display 7 days prior to the defence at .