Telehealth in geriatric nursing: A mini narrative review

The growing global ageing population presents significant challenges for healthcare systems, necessitating innovative, scalable solutions to meet the complex needs of older adults. This mini-narrative review examines the role of telehealth in geriatric nursing, highlighting its potential to improve access, continuity, and quality of care for older adults, including those who are socially isolated or living in low-resource settings. Key telehealth interventions discussed include video consultations, remote health monitoring, telephone follow-ups, mobile applications, and ambient assisted living technologies. The review outlines the numerous benefits of telehealth, such as enhanced patient engagement, caregiver support, and reduced healthcare costs. However, it also identifies critical challenges, including technological barriers, digital literacy gaps, ethical concerns related to informed consent and data security, and systemic issues like inadequate reimbursement and policy frameworks. Special attention is given to the unique barriers and facilitators of telehealth adoption among older adults, particularly in low and middle-income countries. The review underscores the importance of user-centred design, supportive infrastructure, culturally competent training, and regulatory policies that prioritise digital equity. Despite promising advancements, research gaps persist in terms of standardised protocols, long-term outcomes, and tailored approaches for diverse geriatric populations. The paper concludes by emphasising the need for sustained investment, ethical vigilance, and nurse-led innovation to ensure that telehealth becomes a reliable, inclusive pillar of geriatric care globally.