Understanding Virtual Peer Support Needs and Preferences for Maintaining Brain-Healthy Behaviours Among Aging Adults

BACKGROUND: Although virtual supports may promote engagement with brain-healthy lifestyle behaviours among aging adults, few are designed with the needs of end-users in mind. OBJECTIVE: This qualitative study explored the needs and preferences of integrating virtual peer support into brain health programs among Canadian adults aged 55 years and older. METHODS: = 18 women) were conducted and analyzed using thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Participants discussed different brain-healthy behaviours and outlined barriers and facilitators to maintaining a brain-healthy lifestyle. Most women reported perceived differences in experiences between genders, whereas most men did not perceive any gender differences in terms of brain-healthy lifestyles. Participants indicated interest in virtual supports that provide education on brain health, include peer support, promote social engagement, and empower aging adults to maintain autonomy. DISCUSSION: Findings underscore the importance of designing person-centered and gender-responsive virtual brain health programs that reflect aging adults' lived experiences to foster resilience.