A study conducted in Athy, Ireland, and Iași, Romania, assessed lifestyle-related health challenges and digital engagement preferences to prepare for the Connect5 digital health coaching intervention. Utilizing a mixed-methods cross-sectional design, researchers surveyed 219 participants in Ireland and 205 in Romania, gathering data on sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, barriers, and digital health perspectives.

Results indicated both communities face issues with sleep, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and stress, primarily due to time constraints from work, study, or childcare, and high costs of healthy food. Significant variations in lifestyle needs and barriers were noted across different sociodemographic groups, particularly among lower socioeconomic participants who encountered systemic issues like expensive food and unsafe outdoor spaces. Despite varied prior engagement with digital solutions, there was a strong interest in digital health coaching.

The findings will guide the design and implementation of the Connect5 project and inform future digital health initiatives, emphasizing the need to incorporate community input and address disparities to enhance relevance, inclusivity, and overall population well-being.