Factors influencing technophobia in Chinese elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A cross-sectional study based on random forest modeling

Objective we aimed to assess the level of technophobia and identify its influencing factors among elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in China, and to provide a reference for developing intervention targets. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 329 elderly patients with RA were randomly recruited from three tertiary hospitals in Lishui, China. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, including a general information, the Technophobia Scale, the eHealth Literacy Scale, the Self-Efficacy for Chronic Disease scale, and the Perceived Social Support Scale. Influencing factors were ranked in order of importance using a random forest model, key variables were screened by LASSO regression, and these factors were analyzed using generalized linear regression. Results The median score of technophobia was 37 (33.5, 40). Generalized linear regression analysis showed that age, frequency of internet use, e-health literacy, perceived social support, and chronic disease self-efficacy were the main influences on technophobia in elderly patients with RA ( P  < 0.05). Conclusion The level of technophobia among elderly patients with RA was moderate. Interventions aimed at enhancing e-health literacy, self-efficacy, and perceived social support, particularly for older and less internet-experienced patients, may be effective in reducing technophobia and promoting digital health engagement in this population. Clinical Trial Number Not applicable.