DIGIFALE a Mobile Health Literacy Programme for Pacific Communities: A Pilot Study

Background: In an increasingly digitalised world, the ability of older adults to effectively utilise digital devices and navigate online health information has become crucial for maintaining their wellbeing and independence. The DIGIFALE programme was developed to improve the mobile literacy skills of Pacific communities in recognition of the digital shift required because of COVID‐19. Objective: To test the acceptability and impact of DIGIFALE—a mobile health literacy programme—with Pacific communities and to explore how developing mobile literacy skills can improve access to online platforms to improve health and wellbeing. Methods: Pacific adults (Niue, Samoan, Tongan, or Cook Island descent) who were digitally excluded, either lacking a mobile phone, having stopped using one due to difficulty, or feeling unconfident. were recruited through their church communities for a 5‐week pilot ( n = 50). Each participant was supported by a DIGIFALE navigator. Results: At baseline participants could only complete only a few of the 27 skills assessed. At follow up, the mean number of skills per participant was significantly higher. Participants rated their experience with DIGIFALE as excellent and highly positive, including learning new mobile skills and working with their navigators. Most planned to use their skills within 6 months, and 94% would recommend the programme to others. Conclusion: DIGIFALE is an acceptable and effective way of improving mobile literacy among Pacific communities. The pilot study offers key insights for refining and expanding similar initiatives among minority ethnic‐specific communities across Aotearoa New Zealand. Trial registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12621001045808.