Older Black Caregivers in the South: Uncovering the Health-Related Digital Divide

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Older Black caregivers face greater health risks than their White counterparts, with those in the South experiencing even greater challenges and poorer health outcomes due to the enduring effects of institutionalized racism. Digital technology holds promise for reducing health disparities by improving access to health resources; however, its use among this vulnerable population remains underexplored. This study aimed to examine internet access and health-related internet use among older caregivers across race and region, with a focus on whether Black caregivers in the South are at greater disadvantage.

METHODS: Data were analyzed from 900 Black (n = 154) and White (n = 746) caregivers aged 50 and older, drawn from the 2017–2020 Health Information Trends Survey. Logistic regression models assessed the interaction between race (Black/White) and region (South/non-South) on internet access and health-related internet activities, including seeking health information, communicating with doctors, and checking test results. Analyses adjusted for sociodemographic, caregiving, and health-related covariates.

RESULTS: The overall internet access rate was 86%, with 75% of participants searching for health information, 50% communicating with doctors, and 47% checking test results online. Bivariate analyses showed that older Black caregivers in the South had the lowest rates of internet access and health-related internet activities. Logistic regression revealed that Black caregivers in the South were significantly less likely than White caregivers outside the South to have internet access (OR race×region = 0.18, p < .05) or communicate with doctors online (OR race×region = 0.38, p < .05), even after adjusting for covariates. However, no significant differences were found in health-related internet activities among those with internet access.

IMPLICATIONS/CONCLUSION: This study highlights high rates of internet access and health information searching among participants but low engagement in digital communication within healthcare systems. The persistent digital divide faced by Black caregivers in the South, particularly in internet access and online communication with doctors, could worsen health inequities as healthcare systems increasingly rely on digital platforms. Targeted efforts to expand internet access and provide training in health-related digital tools are urgently needed to address these disparities and support this vulnerable population.