High-tech and low-Literacy: Appropriate technology for conveying a wellness intervention among Latina women

Background

The internet is under-used for improving the health of populations with inadequate health literacy and disparate risk for obesity and overweight. Characteristics of Hispanic households suggest they need accurate and credible health information designed for populations with low health literacy.

Objective

Four focus groups were conducted to identify technologies for delivery of a wellness intervention for Latina women in Austin, Texas.

Methods

Groups were conducted with 18-30 year old Hispanic women receiving services at two agencies: a WIC office and English-as-a-Second Language (ESL) classes. Questions focused on interest in technologies and health information.

Focus groups were analyzed on themes of technology use and health information seeking. Notes and audio recordings were consulted for analysis.

Results

Thirty women participated in the ESL groups: 13 in English and 17 in Spanish. Ten people participated in groups at a WIC office in English.

About a third of participants had used the internet; half of those used it at home and had e-mail. Most were interested in health information and mentioned the internet or TV as good sources of information. Most were eager to learn how to use computers to get information.

Barriers to attending a class were time, transportation and childcare. Barriers to internet access were money and transportation.

Conclusions

Limited experience with technology does not mean lack of interest in internet health information or computer training. Young Latina women seem a promising audience for health information on the internet and could be positive change agents for healthier lifestyles.