Table 3.

Older adult and investigator recommendations for eHealth tools.

Theme and study			Older adult recommendation		Investigator recommendation
User interface
	Alpert et al (2016) [39]	Write information as bulleted lists Dictionary to look up challenging terminology		Create an interactive user interface Use images that represent the information being presented Use motivational voice, not passive voice
	Baier et al (2015) [40]	If the page requires scrolling to view all the content, add a pop-up to remind the user to scroll down Allow users the option to increase font size Results and health information should be easily printed The web-based apps should be optimized for mobile devices		Avoid writing in all caps Use serif fonts Use contrasting colors to enhance readability Provide prompts for functions Write at a sixth-grade reading level, limit technical language Include definitions for medical terms Directly label graphs Limit comparisons with 3-4 points
	Jongstra et al (2017) [43]	Use language that focuses on health rather than disease Log-in passwords should not be complicated Include interactive features Health information should be easily printed		Use large font size Use simple and consistent layout with large buttons Use images and distinct colors to facilitate page navigation Include audio option
	Loh et al (2018) [37]	N/Aa		Ensure reliable internet access Provide stylus for touchscreen devices Provide a list of voice options if audio included Optimize the app for mobile phones and tablets Ensure screen brightness, font and color are easily readable
	Portz et al (2019) [38]	Use larger font and contrasting colors		N/A
	Smallwood et al (2017) [42]	N/A		Automatic entry of patient’s lab scores to decrease incorrect information
Functionality
	Alpert et al (2016) [39]	Ability to communicate with the physician regarding information received on the portal Seamless and intuitive password retrieval		Ability for physician to confirm if their patient viewed or understood the information provided to them
	Baier et al (2015) [40]	Add detailed instructions at the beginning of the eHealth tool to help users learn how to navigate the tool		N/A
	Irizarry et al (2017) [44]	Include task-based training to help users understand how to navigate the different features of the patient portal		Integrate the patient portal with in-person clinical encounters Allow personnel to edit missing or inaccurate information in the patient portal
	Jongstra et al (2017) [43]	Provide a way for patients to ask questions about navigating the online platform Include an instructional video to aid in platform navigation		Include games, goal setting, automated messages among other interactive features to motivate eHealth use
	Loh et al (2018) [37]	Participants found functions including appointments, medications, nutrition, and exercise reminders helpful		If symptom reporting is included, ensure that feedback is provided on reported symptoms Provide digital activity tracker when exercise intervention is recommended Incorporate nonmedical functions such as social activities, jokes, games, etc
	Nahm et al (2018) [41]	N/A		Implement patient portal training for older adults
	Portz et al (2019) [38]	Participants were interested in using e-visits and chat functions with providers		Portal designers should consider including functions that integrate eHealth with physical clinic visits
Information included
	Alpert et al (2016) [39]	Include personalized, not generic health information Patients appreciated receiving laboratory results but sometimes had difficulty interpreting them		N/A
	Jongstra et al (2017) [43]	Provide practical and reliable health information		N/A
	Loh et al (2018) [37]	N/A		Tailor interventions and activities to the individual
	Toscos et al (2016) [45]	N/A		Apply a user-centered design approach to tailor the portal to the specific population that it is designed for

^aN/A: not applicable.