Conceptualization and Functional Specifications of an e-learning Ecosystem Towards the Support of Older Adults and Their Supports in Developing Digital and Health Literacy Skills
摘要
A key determinant for healthy longevity is health literacy, including also the contemporary digital aspect. The COMFORTage project introduces an innovative, people-centered e-learning platform designed to enhance digital and health literacy among older adults, particularly those affected by or at risk of dementia and frailty. Anchored in experiential learning theory and adult education principles, the platform integrates two key components: the Training and Educational Toolkit (TET), offering personalized, interactive learning modules, and the Training and Educational Marketplace (TEM), a curated repository of digital health tools and applications. Together, these components support older adults, caregivers, and healthcare professionals in building confidence, improving self-management skills, and navigating the digital health landscape. Developed through literature review, stakeholder engagement, and co-creation with end-users across Europe, the COMFORTage platform addresses major barriers such as technological anxiety, limited access, and fragmented training systems. This paper outlines the platform’s conceptual framework, functional specifications, and development roadmap, contributing a novel and scalable approach to supporting healthy aging and digital inclusion in diverse contexts.