2026-03-192026-03-19https://media.suub.uni-bremen.de/handle/elib/24532In Europe, the percentage of patients with lower health and digital literacy is high (42% (0.36–0.48)). Health literacy is defined as the ability to find, understand and use health information and services to make informed decisions about one´s health. Digital literacy refers to the ability to use digital technologies. Patients with lower health and digital literacy tend to be older, live in rural areas, have lower incomes and education levels, and experience a higher prevalence of chronic diseases, resulting in more frequent doctor visits.This project aims to transform health and care systems towards a uniform integrated care system, supporting caregivers in communicating with older patients with lower health and digital literacy, including their families and communities. This project seeks to enhance the ability of older adults with lower health and digital literacy (LHDL) to understand and use digital services for preventing and managing health conditions to improve patient satisfaction, outcomes, and caregiver job satisfaction, thereby reducing health inequalities among older adults.The project aims to adapt the FindMyApps app to the needs of older adults with LHDL, as well as their formal and informal caregivers. Improving organisational health literacy within and between institutes will improve integrated healthcare around and with the older patient. By using digital technology, older patients receive equal opportunities for effective treatment and the prevention of disease development and progression in the disease. This person-centered, integrated healthcare system delivers high-quality care to older adults.The STARS-Health research program is divided into five work packages. Objectives of this workplan is based upon an extensive needs assessment (WP3), development and implementation of blended care (WP4) and development and implementation of caregiver training (WP5). Overall coordinated by WP1. Evaluated by quality assessments with an advisory board (WP2) and conducted in collaboration with a diversity of stakeholders. The deliverables are disseminated, and impact is generated based upon a dissemination and impact plan (WP 2).The explorative phase (M1-11) comprises two literature reviews, an internet review and an extensive needs assessment which is executed in five countries by all partners (WP3). Construction of the framework for interviews and focus groups and analysis plan and creating the matrix of needs that form the basis for the development phase (e.g. the FindMyApps taxonomy). WP 3 ‘Needs assessment’ has a high responsibility of coordinating tasks because in five countries a survey, interviews and focus groups will be performed. The analysis and overview of the literature form the basis of the first co-creation meeting with all partners and stakeholders at the start of the development phase.The development phase (M 12-21) is the design phase. In this phase in WP4 and WP5 materials are developed and tested, more specifically the re-developed FindMyApps app and caregiver training are developed in two consecutive design circles involving all stakeholders and end-users. The implementation phase (M 22–36) consists of a feasibility study (WP5), conducted in five countries with caregivers and older patients from hospitals, rehabilitation centres, and private practices. The effect of the implementation will be measured by: Older adult’s self-management (Self-management ability score (SMAS), interviews, electronic health records, use of the re-developed FindMyApps, and by indirect caregiver observations), treatment effects, Caregiver’s satisfaction with the training, job satisfaction and interprofessional collaboration.Reports and publications will be published and disseminated through STARS-Health and STARS-EU congresses and other professional conferences. The results will also be distributed through the advisory board, involved stakeholders and policymakers.