Latent profile analysis of digital health literacy among digital device-using older adults with coronary heart disease: a cross-sectional study

Objectives Our study aimed to analyze the latent profiles of digital health literacy among community-dwelling older adults with clinically diagnosed coronary heart disease (CHD) who can use digital devices, and to explore factors associated with different profiles. Methods This cross-sectional survey was conducted among community-dwelling older adults with clinically diagnosed CHD who can use digital devices in Qingdao, from October 2024 to December 2024. Data were collected using a Demographic and Clinical questionnaire, the Older Digital Health Literacy Scale, and the Online Health Information Seeking Behavior Scale. We performed latent profile analysis to identify the latent profile of older adults with CHD. And we used chi-square and multinomial logistic regression analysis to explore associated factors. Results A total of 371 older coronary heart disease patients completed the questionnaire. The digital health literacy score was (39.31 ± 7.27) points. Statistical fit indices (LMR and BLRT) supported a three-class solution ( p < 0.001): low literacy type ( n = 96, 26.3%), middle literacy type ( n = 188, 50.5%), and high literacy type ( n = 87, 23.2%). Place of residence, monthly household income, living arrangements, duration of coronary heart disease, frequency of using digital devices for health, and online health information seeking were significant associated with the different latent profiles ( p < 0.05). Conclusion Three distinct latent profiles of digital health literacy were identified among older adults with CHD, each exhibiting significant differences in characteristics. Based on the identified profiles, tailored interventions may differ in focus: basic digital skill training for the low literacy group, guided and confidence-enhancing strategies for the middle literacy group, and advanced engagement optimization for the high literacy group. Higher levels of digital health literacy were associated with greater potential capacity for disease self-management. Notably, the findings in this study should be interpreted in light of the cross-sectional design and exclusion of non-digital-device users. Trial registration Clinical trial number: not applicable. This study didn’t report any results of a health care intervention on human participants.