How older adults manage misinformation and information overload - A qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health Communication
• Digital Media Studies

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic generated significant information and misinformation, with limited data on its behavioral impact.
• Older adults are identified as a vulnerable demographic susceptible to misinformation, potentially impacting their attitudes and behaviors.
• Understanding the effects of misinformation and information overload on this population is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the effects of misinformation and information overload on older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To present strategies employed by older adults to manage these information challenges.
• To examine the concept of vulnerability in older adults concerning misinformation.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative exploratory research design was utilized.
• Thirty-six semi-structured interviews were conducted with older adults in Quebec, Canada.
• Thematic content analysis was applied to fully transcribed interviews.

Main Results:

• Participants reported confidence in identifying online misinformation, yet its dissemination caused fear, stress, and anxiety.
• Misinformation led to social polarization, causing interpersonal tensions and strained relationships.
• Participants actively developed information-seeking routines to manage information overload and source credibility.

Conclusions:

• This study highlights older adults' agency in managing misinformation and information overload, questioning their inherent vulnerability.
• Findings suggest a need to differentiate communication strategies for information overload versus misinformation.
• Rethinking communication approaches is essential to effectively support older adults in the digital information landscape.