Perceptions on financial exploitation and technology-based solutions among older adults

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Cybersecurity
• Sociology

Background:

• Financial exploitation of older adults is a growing concern.
• Technology use among seniors presents unique challenges and vulnerabilities.
• Effective interventions are needed to protect this demographic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore older adults' perceptions and experiences with technology related to financial exploitation.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to technology adoption and security among seniors.
• To inform the development of targeted interventions against elder financial fraud.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 40 adults aged 60+.
• Focus groups conducted in both rural and urban settings.
• Thematic analysis of participant experiences and perceptions.

Main Results:

• Key themes: technology knowledge gaps, trust/privacy concerns linked to source credibility, and reactive security measures.
• Urban seniors showed greater tech comfort and advanced protective strategies compared to rural seniors.
• Seniors often rely on informal or untrusted sources for tech information.

Conclusions:

• Interventions should offer in-person, step-by-step guidance from credible institutions.
• Simplifying technical language and promoting proactive security measures are crucial.
• Addressing rural-urban disparities in technology access and literacy is important for elder protection.