Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 2, 2025

Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Contrasting Internet Adoption in Early and Advanced Old Age: Does Internet Self-Efficacy Matter?
Mario R Jokisch1, Louisa Scheling1, Michael Doh1,2
1Institute of Gerontology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
Objectives:
Understanding why older adults (including those in very old age) use or do not use the Internet can build on the technology acceptance model (TAM). In this cross-sectional study, we translate the TAM to the Internet and assume that perceived usefulness of the Internet (PUI) and perceived ease of use of the Internet (PEUI) will be revealed as major predictors of behavioral intention to use the Internet (BII). Additionally, we consider the role of Internet self-efficacy (ISE) as another major factor for older adults' Internet use. We also argue that life phase, particularly early as opposed to advanced old age, may moderate how PUI, PEUI, and ISE relate to BII.
Methods:
A sample of 1,200 older adults aged 60 years and older (60-74 years, n = 658; 75-99 years, n = 542) was randomly drawn from the city of Stuttgart, Germany. Sociodemographic variables and major indicators of TAM and ISE were assessed based on a computer-assisted telephone interviewing procedure.
Results:
Latent structural equation modeling revealed that PUI is the more important predictor of BII in older adults. Furthermore, ISE revealed statistically meaningful positive links with PUI, PEUI, and BII. Multigroup comparison revealed that PUI had a stronger linkage with BII in early old age, whereas ISE was more important for BII in advanced old age.
Discussion:
The results suggest that ISE may enrich the network of TAM constructs among older adults in general but specifically in advanced old age.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Erikson's Theory on Socioemotional Development during Adulthood
Intimacy Versus Isolation in Early Adulthood
Individuals in early...
Self-Efficacy
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication
Cognitive Development During Adulthood
Self-Presentation: Self-Monitoring and Self-Handicapping
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification

