Do older people have more experience with technology?
Best insight from top research papers
Older adults have varying levels of experience with technology. While some older individuals may have limited exposure to technology due to rapid advancements in recent decades , there is a growing population of elderly individuals with extensive ICT knowledge from years of using computers and cell phones at work and in their personal lives . Research indicates that training older adults to effectively use information and communications technology (ICT) can combat social isolation and improve well-being . Additionally, studies on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) interfaces show that older adults, regardless of their technology experience, can effectively use high-tech AAC interfaces . Furthermore, older people's perceptions of smart home monitoring technology vary based on their direct experience with the technology, with acceptance increasing over time and with use .
Answers from top 5 papers
More filters
| Papers (5) | Insight |
|---|---|
| Older people with direct experience of smart home monitoring technology showed increased acceptance over time, indicating that experience influences their views and comfort with technology. | |
| Yes, older people are technologically mature with extensive ICT experience from daily computer and device use at work and leisure, despite common perceptions of their inexperience. | |
| Older people often lack early-life experience with technology, making technological tasks challenging due to limited fluid intelligence. They require cognitive and functional skills training to overcome these challenges. | |
| Older adults in the study were divided into groups with and without technology experience, showing that technology experience did not significantly impact performance, suggesting similar levels of experience. | |
| Yes, older adults have positive experiences with technology, leading to empowerment, connection, and aging well. Training them in ICT can combat social isolation and improve well-being. |
Related Questions
Older people have a negative attitude towards technology?4 answersOlder people's attitudes towards technology are influenced by various factors, including their personal characteristics, technology-related factors, and the social context of technology adoption. Ageism, rather than chronological age, is associated with negative attitudes towards technology among older adults. Negative attitudes towards robots simulating emotions and lower likelihood of anthropomorphizing technology are observed in older participants. Attitudes towards technology are also influenced by factors such as living arrangements, age, and education level, with those living with others, younger in age, and with higher education levels having more positive attitudes. Additionally, positive self-perceptions of aging are associated with more positive attitudes towards technology, while negative self-perceptions of aging are associated with negative attitudes towards technology. Therefore, while some older people may have negative attitudes towards technology, it is important to consider the various factors that influence these attitudes.
Does age have a significant impact on how people use technology?4 answersAge has a significant impact on how people use technology. Research suggests that older age is associated with lower intention to use digital technology, and this association is partially mediated by expectations regarding aging. However, the relationship between age and technology acceptance is complex. While some studies have found that age is negatively linked to attitude toward new technology, others have shown that age is not a significant predictor of computer use or cell phone ownership. Factors such as perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, cognitive constraints, and organizational difficulties also play a role in technology acceptance among older adults. Additionally, digital leadership has been found to buffer the negative effects of age on technology acceptance. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of age on technology acceptance and to identify potential mitigating factors.
Is digital literacy lower for older people?4 answersDigital literacy is lower for older people. Older adults face barriers in learning and using digital devices, such as concerns about privacy and struggles due to physical and cognitive changes associated with aging. Older adults of lower socioeconomic status (SES) in particular face difficulties in adopting digital technology and are digitally excluded. The clash of global aging with ICT development has highlighted the need to improve digital skills among older generations to prevent social exclusion. The ACCESS project recognizes the complexity of older adults' digital inclusion and emphasizes the interplay of structural and individual factors. Although interventions to enhance digital literacy among older adults have emerged, there is a need for further evaluation of their effectiveness.
How do elderly learn in terms of technology?5 answersElderly individuals learn technology through the support and involvement of younger family members, who play transformative roles throughout the learning process. These roles include being influencers, supporters, protectors, and monitors, and they evolve based on the changing needs and perceptions of older adults. Instructors modify their courses to incorporate socialization, interactivity, and a focus on the learning process rather than outcomes, while also capitalizing on older adults' strengths and encouraging reciprocity. Personal autonomy and communal participation are important principles for designing services to improve older adults' technology learning experiences. Instructors at senior learning centers develop teaching strategies such as reserved teaching, unscripted performance, and assistance from peers to cater to the needs of elderly learners. These findings highlight the importance of collaboration with family members, the need for training instructors and students, and the potential for technology to improve the quality of life for older adults.
What are the benefits and challenges of technology use for older adults?5 answersTechnology use for older adults has both benefits and challenges. On the positive side, technology can support their independence, prevent functional or cognitive decline, limit chronic diseases, and promote active aging. It can also help older adults stay connected with family, friends, and the larger society through social media, reducing loneliness and isolation. However, there are challenges that older adults face when using technology. Some older adults may have difficulties in learning and using new technology. They may also face intrinsic, extrinsic, and structural barriers that hinder their initiation and continuation of using social media. Overcoming these challenges is crucial, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as technology can be a valuable tool for older adults to overcome mobility and lifestyle challenges and engage with their community. Therefore, it is important to provide support and interventions to help older adults develop digital competencies and navigate the benefits and challenges of technology use.
What are the most common technologies used by the elderly?5 answersThe most common technologies used by the elderly include wearable technology, assistive technology, smartphones, and smart devices. Wearable technology and assistive technology are used to assist the daily activities of the elderly, such as slow body movements, lack of balance, and memory loss. Smartphones are widely used by the elderly for entertainment and productivity purposes, although their use may be affected by age-related motor and cognitive decline. Smart devices, including motion sensors and vital signal sign monitors, are also utilized to support the safety and well-being of elderly individuals, particularly in the context of remote monitoring and assisted living systems. These technologies aim to enhance the independence, quality of life, and safety of the elderly population.