Older Adults Knowledge about using smart technology during the Covid-19 crisis-a qualitative pilot study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Digital Health
• Sociology of Technology

Background:

• The aging global population faces increasing digital technology challenges across diverse socio-cultural contexts.
• Understanding the digital literacy and technology adoption among institutionalized elderly is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the technology knowledge and digital literacy of institutionalized elderly individuals.
• To explore older users' perspectives on smart technology's impact during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study involving 10 residents from a Home for the Elderly and Infirm.
• Semi-structured 1:1 interviews conducted in January 2021.
• Content analysis of recorded and transcribed interview narratives.

Main Results:

• All 10 participants (average age 83.4) own mobile devices; only 4 use smartphones.
• Primary communication via basic calls; limited use of applications like Viber and WhatsApp (3 users).
• Only one participant uses Skype for family communication.

Conclusions:

• Respondents perceive limited value in technology for social connection and lack sufficient digital skills.
• Self-education and family support are current learning methods.
• Volunteer-led digital literacy programs could enhance elderly engagement with technology post-pandemic.