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Older adults living through and with their computers
1Georgia College and State University, Campus Vox 064, Milledgeville, GA 31061, USA. djclark@mail.gcsu.edu
Computers, Informatics, Nursing : CIN
|May 22, 2002
Summary
Older adults effectively used online surveys and chat rooms to combat loneliness. This pilot study confirms the feasibility of internet-based data collection for understanding technology
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Sociology
Background:
- Loneliness and social isolation are significant concerns for older adults.
- The internet's potential to mitigate these issues is largely unexplored.
- Online data collection methods for this demographic are nascent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the experiences of older adults completing online questionnaires and participating in chat room interviews.
- To assess the suitability of chat room interviews for rich qualitative data collection.
- To explore the internet's role in deterring social and emotional isolation among seniors.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive qualitative pilot study was conducted.
- Participants aged 65+ living alone completed a Web page questionnaire.
- Online interviews were conducted using a chat room format.
Main Results:
- Seven out of ten participants used computers to combat loneliness.
- Participants found online questionnaires easy to complete.
- Chat room interviews were perceived positively, with participants believing in their future utility.
Conclusions:
- Online data collection methods, including questionnaires and chat room interviews, are feasible for older adults.
- The internet shows potential as a tool to reduce social and emotional isolation in this population.
- Further qualitative research using these online methodologies is warranted.