Kent State University

Kent State University will investigate the health information-seeking behaviors of older adults in northeastern and Appalachian Ohio and make recommendations to help libraries and health care providers create more effective health information programs and services. The region's population of older adults is increasing rapidly and is often poorly equipped to make important health-related decisions. Seniors frequently do not know how to find the information they need and may rely on inaccurate information, ignore serious problems, or make inappropriate choices regarding their health care. The researchers will evaluate all aspects of health information for seniors, including information access, decision-making processes, and the practices of community professionals who serve this population.