When “Aging” meets “Intelligence”: smart health cognition and intentions of older adults in rural Western China

Smart health has immense potential to enhance the quality of life of older adults, driven by a genuine and pressing demand expressed by rural older adults and a strong behavioral intention toward adoption. Despite facing challenges, such as limited cognitive diversity in smart health, economic constraints, technical usability barriers, and lack of social and familial support, future initiatives must prioritize the actual needs of older adults in rural areas. This requires effective communication strategies and service models tailored to the specific conditions of underdeveloped regions in order to expand and deepen the use of smart health applications. Moreover, concerted efforts by governments, enterprises, and all sectors of society are essential to deliver more accessible and cost-effective health management and services to older adults. Ultimately, these efforts will contribute to enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life of older adults.