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The Digital Divide and urban older adults.
M Kay Cresci1, Hossein N Yarandi, Roger W Morrell
1Institute of Gerontology, College of Nursing, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA. kcresci@wayne.edu
Computers, Informatics, Nursing : CIN
|February 26, 2010
Summary
Many urban older adults do not use computers, despite the benefits for independent living. Computer users were younger, more educated, healthier, and more active than nonusers, indicating a persistent digital divide.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Health Informatics
Background:
- The internet offers older adults resources for independent living.
- Many urban older adults do not utilize computers, creating a digital divide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify demographic, health, and social activity predictors of computer use among urban older adults.
- To understand the factors contributing to the non-adoption of technology in this population.
Main Methods:
- Secondary data analysis of the 2001 Detroit City-Wide Needs Assessment of Older Adults (n=1410).
- Logistic regression was employed to compare computer users and nonusers.
Main Results:
- Computer users were younger (27%), more educated, employed, earned >$20,000 annually, healthier, and more socially active.
- Users engaged in internet searches, gaming, writing, and communication.
- Nonusers were less likely to be employed or have community/volunteer involvement.
Conclusions:
- Significant demographic and health differences exist between computer users and nonusers in urban older adults.
- Despite some adoption, a notable digital divide persists for many older urban residents.
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