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Representations of Older Adults' Digital Literacy in Canadian News Media: Critical Discourse Analysis Using Unified

Alixe Ménard^1,2, Alexandra Maharaj³, Sophie Harb¹

¹Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, 200 Lees Ave, Ottawa, ON, K1S5L5, Canada, 1 (613) 562-5800 ext. 2306.

|August 29, 2025

Abstract

Background:

The transition of social and health services to digital platforms has significant implications for the inclusion and well-being of older adults. Digital literacy is a key determinant of health and equity, particularly as services shift to digital platforms. For older adults, this is crucial for accessing essential services and information, aiding in emergency resource navigation and information access.

Objective:

This study examines how Canadian news media portray older adults' digital literacy, using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework to guide the analysis.

Methods:

News media articles from Canada, published from May 4, 2023, to July 4, 2024, were analyzed. Articles were identified through database searches and manual reviews, with inclusion criteria focusing on mentions of older adults and digital literacy. Critical discourse analysis was conducted using UTAUT2 factors to interpret the media narratives.

Results:

Of the 103 articles reviewed, 54 met the inclusion criteria. Four key themes emerged: (1) Performance and effort expectancy: media frequently depicted older adults as needing significant help with digital technologies, indicating potential digital ageism. (2) Social influence: fearmongering narratives suggest insufficient technological skills could result in social exclusion and limited access to essential services. (3) Facilitating conditions: articles highlighted older adults' susceptibility to digital scams and fraud, reinforcing digital ageism. (4) Hedonic motivation: media portrayals emphasized active aging, illustrating how digital tools, such as home security systems, can enhance independence and quality of life.

Conclusions:

Many media narratives on older adults' digital literacy perpetuate digital ageism. The study highlights how negative portrayals of older adults' digital skills and their exclusion from digital spaces underscore the need for more inclusive media representations. Findings suggest that media outlets could play a crucial role in shifting to more supportive portrayals of older adults' engagement with technology. Improving media portrayals can enhance digital engagement and preparedness among aging populations, contributing to better overall quality of life.

Keywords:

digital divide digital technology disaster planning media representation older adults

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