Technology access and preferences for remote assessments at Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers.

BACKGROUND

As Alzheimer's disease and related dementias studies incorporate remote assessments, people at higher risk, such as individuals from minority racial and ethnic groups, may be disadvantaged due to imbalances in access.

METHODS

Using data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set, logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations with a random effect for study site were used to test the association of race and ethnicity, education, and their interactions with technology preferences and internet access.

RESULTS

A total of 3,803 participants across 17 ADRCs (mean age 73.3 years [standard deviation [SD] = 9.9], education 16.4 years [SD = 2.7], 79% non-Hispanic White) were included. The effect of education on internet access via desktop, laptop computer, and tablet was greater in non-White participants than in non-Hispanic White participants. A similar pattern was observed for interest in using devices for study visits.

DISCUSSION: Education may have a role in racial and ethnic differences in technological access and preferences.