Technology access and preferences for remote assessments at Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers

Background: As Alzheimer's disease and related dementias studies incorporate remote assessments, people at higher risk, such as individuals from minority racial and ethnic groups, may be disadvantaged due to imbalances in access. Methods: Using data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set, logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations with a random effect for study site were used to test the association of race and ethnicity, education, and their interactions with technology preferences and internet access. Results: A total of 3,803 participants across 17 ADRCs (mean age 73.3 years [standard deviation [SD] = 9.9], education 16.4 years [SD = 2.7], 79% non-Hispanic White) were included. The effect of education on internet access via desktop, laptop computer, and tablet was greater in non-White participants than in non-Hispanic White participants. A similar pattern was observed for interest in using devices for study visits. Discussion: Education may have a role in racial and ethnic differences in technological access and preferences.