Regional and rural aged care providers in Australia face major hurdles in adopting digital health tools, according to a new Flinders University study released on November 10, 2025. The research highlights how these barriers prevent cost savings, better safety, and improved services in areas that need them most.
Key Findings from the Study
The Flinders University scoping review analyzed 48 studies on digital health use in Australian aged care. It found that rural services lag behind urban ones in tools like telehealth and remote monitoring.
Researchers pointed out that digital tech could ease workforce shortages and rising costs in aged care. Yet, adoption remains low in remote areas, widening the gap in care quality.
Dr. Peivand Bastani, a co-author and senior lecturer at Flinders University, stressed that without better support, the digital divide will grow. The study, published in the International Journal of Medical Informatics, calls for urgent action to boost connectivity.
This comes amid Australia’s aging population, with over 4.2 million people aged 65 or older as of 2025, many living in rural zones.
Main Barriers to Adoption
Poor internet access tops the list of challenges for rural aged care. Many areas lack reliable broadband, making video calls and online records impossible.
Workforce issues add to the problem. Staff in remote facilities often lack training to use new tech, leading to resistance and errors.
Cost is another big hurdle. Small providers struggle to afford setup and maintenance of digital systems.
- Limited infrastructure: Slow speeds and black spots prevent real-time health monitoring.
- Digital skills gap: Older workers and residents may not know how to use apps or devices.
- Funding shortages: Rural services get less government support for tech upgrades.
Recent data from the National Rural Health Alliance shows that 40 percent of rural Australians face poor internet, up from previous years due to growing demand.
Impact on Elderly Residents
Elderly people in rural Australia suffer the most from these barriers. Without digital tools, they miss out on virtual doctor visits, which could cut travel time and costs.
For instance, a disabled senior might wait weeks for in-person care instead of getting quick remote advice. This delay can worsen health issues like chronic conditions.
Stories from users on social platforms reveal frustration. Many older adults without smartphones or internet feel excluded from basic services.
In 2025, with aged care demand surging, experts warn that unequal access could lead to higher hospital admissions and poorer outcomes.
The study ties into broader trends, such as the Australian government’s push for digital reform in aged care, set for full rollout by late 2025.
Recommendations for Change
Experts suggest targeted investments to close the gap. Building better digital infrastructure in rural areas is a top priority.
Training programs for staff and residents could build skills and confidence in using tech.
| Recommendation | Expected Benefit | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Improve broadband access | Enable telehealth and monitoring | By 2026 |
| Provide subsidies for devices | Reduce costs for providers | Immediate |
| Offer ongoing training | Boost adoption rates | Ongoing |
| Partner with tech firms | Customize solutions for rural needs | Next 12 months |
Government support, like grants from the Department of Health, could speed up these changes. Dr. Bastani urges collaboration between urban and rural providers to share best practices.
Looking Ahead
As Australia grapples with an aging population and strained health systems, addressing these barriers is crucial. Digital health could save millions in costs and improve lives if rolled out evenly.
Recent events, such as the 2025 federal budget allocating funds for rural tech, show promise. But action must happen fast to avoid leaving remote communities behind.
What do you think about digital health in rural areas? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to raise awareness.
