The Impact of Telehealth on Chronic Disease Management in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the impact of telehealth on chronic disease management in older adults through a systematic review of existing literature. The aging population worldwide is facing an increasing burden of chronic diseases, requiring innovative approaches to healthcare delivery. Telehealth, defined as the remote delivery of healthcare services using technology, has emerged as a promising solution to improve access to care and enhance disease management for older adults with chronic conditions. This study aims to synthesize the available evidence on the effectiveness of telehealth interventions in managing chronic diseases in older adults, with a focus on outcomes such as health-related quality of life, disease management adherence, and healthcare utilization. The systematic review methodology employed in this study involves a comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library, to identify relevant studies published in the last decade. The inclusion criteria encompass randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews that evaluate the impact of telehealth interventions on chronic disease management outcomes in older adult populations. Data extraction and synthesis will be conducted to analyze the key findings and trends across the selected studies. The findings of this systematic review will contribute to the existing knowledge on the effectiveness of telehealth in improving chronic disease management for older adults. By synthesizing the evidence from diverse studies, this thesis aims to provide insights into the potential benefits and limitations of telehealth interventions in this population. The implications of these findings for clinical practice, policy-making, and future research will be discussed, highlighting the importance of integrating telehealth into routine care for older adults with chronic diseases. Overall, this thesis seeks to advance our understanding of how telehealth can positively impact chronic disease management in older adults, offering valuable insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and researchers seeking to optimize care delivery for this vulnerable population.