This study examines how the digital divide affects medication adherence among older adults and explores how inclusive design can inform the development of more accessible digital health tools. Although smart pillboxes and health apps are increasingly available, many older users remain excluded due to barriers related to physical accessibility, digital literacy, and trust in technology.

A multi-phase qualitative approach was adopted, involving semi-structured interviews with older adults and healthcare professionals. Thematic analysis identified six recurring challenges: forgetfulness, caregiver reliance, low digital confidence, physical limitations, interface complexity, and digital distrust. These findings informed the design of a two-part system: the En-Take mobile application and a physical smart pillbox.

The app emphasizes visual clarity, simplified interaction, and core features such as QR code-based prescription import, personalized scheduling, allergy alerts, and caregiver data sharing. The pillbox supports ergonomic access, offering a rounded grip-friendly form and a circular LCD display for real-time reminders and system status.
While the small sample size and lack of caregiver representation limit generalizability, the study provides a foundational model for inclusive health technology. Future work includes user testing, caregiver interface development, and iterative hardware refinement. The findings highlight the potential of qualitative insight to inform the design of more empathetic and accessible solutions for aging populations.

Key Words: Older Adults, Digital Divide, medication non-adherence, App Design, Pillbox Design, Inclusive Design