Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Assessment of Age-related Changes in Cognitive Functions Using EmoCogMeter, a Novel Tablet-computer Based Approach
Published on: February 14, 2014
Unlocking Self-Esteem in Older Adults: A Conceptual Exploration of Technological Proficiency and Its Effects
Wenjie Zhu1, Nurul Hidayu Mat Jusoh1, Ribka Alan1
1Faculty of Humanities Management and Science, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, Bintulu 97008, Malaysia.
Abstract:
With the current rapid increase in digital technology adoption, understanding the relationship between technological proficiency and self-esteem is crucial to older adults. This study explores the mechanisms through which technological proficiency influences self-esteem, particularly considering its associations with technological engagement, self-efficacy, social participation, and autonomy. By using a narrative review approach, this study synthesizes recent findings from gerontology and psychology to examine these relationships. The analysis shows that higher technological proficiency enhances self-esteem by boosting self-efficacy, fostering social participation, and promoting greater autonomy. Older adults who are skilled in using digital tools exhibit greater confidence in managing daily activities and maintaining their social networks, contributing to their psychological resilience. Conversely, lower technological proficiency is linked to frustration, social exclusion, and diminished self-esteem, exacerbated by the digital divide. However, despite these insights, much remains unexplored; for example, no longitudinal study has been conducted to capture the dynamic relations between technological proficiency and self-esteem. These findings suggest that further research is needed to learn more about how technological proficiency influences self-esteem and recommend clinical ways of supporting older adults in their current stage.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Social Foundations of Self IV: Self in Digital Communication
Self-Esteem
Sources of Self-Esteem II: Performance Feedback
Sources of Self-Esteem III: Social Comparison
Protecting Self-Esteem

