Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

4-20-2016

Abstract

Background/Purpose: With a growing number of people using the Internet to access health information, the need for reliable and accessible content is increasingly important. Challenges in health literacy and web accessibility can significantly decrease ones ability to prevent, treat, or adapt to illness or injury. Increasingly, agricultural producers are utilizing computers and technology, as Internet access becomes more widespread through rural areas. Farmers and ranchers are at a high risk for injury and disability due to the physical nature and long hours of the occupation. Agriculture for Life aims to provide reliable and accessible web-based health information for New Mexico agriculture producers, so they may remain productive in agriculture throughout the lifespan. A literature review was conducted in order to establish principles of health literacy and web accessibility for Agriculture for Life content. Methods: The literature review utilized the databases of EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS), PubMed, CINAHL, WorldCat, and ScienceDirect. Search terms regarding health and internet literacy were found using combinations of the following search terms: health, literacy, agriculture, elderly, rural population, ehealth, older adults, aging farmers, internet use, older adult disability, and health services in rural areas. Research articles related to web accessibility were found using combinations of the following search terms: web accessibility, disability, website design, accessibility, rural, agriculture, and health information. Seventeen resources were identified to contribute to the literature review. Because few recent articles exist, research was expanded to include reputable government and nonprofit websites containing reliable information regarding health literacy and web accessibility. Results: Research has shown that health literacy and web accessibility are important to consider when developing eHealth content. To reach an audience effectively, web-based health content must use concise and simple language, avoid medical jargon, and be designed to allow access for those with disabilities. Health literacy and web accessibility principles gathered from the literature review will help guide the creation of content and website design for Agriculture for Life. Examples of content are provided. Conclusion: Agriculture for Life is a conceptualized product of online health promotion for New Mexico farmers and ranchers. This paper serves as an example of the process involved in designing evidence-supported, web-based health promotion.'

Comments

Poster presented at the University of New Mexico Occupational Therapy Research Day, April 20th, 2016, Albuquerque, NM.

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