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[The elderly on technology: usage ease of usage, interest and ascribed usefulness]
1Koninklijke PTT Nederland NV, Instituut voor toegepast bedrijfsonderzoek, Leidschendam.
Tijdschrift Voor Gerontologie En Geriatrie
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Older adults (over 55) use modern technology less frequently and later than younger individuals. However, many show positive attitudes and interest in technology, particularly the younger elderly group.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Sociology of Technology
Context:
- Explorative survey on technology adoption among older adults in the Netherlands.
- Compares technology use and attitudes of 1099 individuals aged over 55 with a reference group of 174 younger individuals.
- Investigates experiences and attitudes towards modern technical facilities.
Purpose:
- To explore the technology usage patterns and attitudes of older adults.
- To identify differences in technology adoption between older adults and a younger reference group.
- To understand the perceived impact of technology on the lives of older individuals.
Summary:
- Older adults (>55 years) demonstrate less frequent and delayed adoption of modern technologies compared to a younger reference group.
- Despite lower usage, a significant portion of older adults exhibit positive attitudes and interest in technology, especially those aged 55-64.
- The impact of technology on older adults' lives is perceived as less significant than for younger, working individuals, though interest varies widely.
Impact:
- Findings suggest a gap in technology adoption among the elderly, with potential implications for digital inclusion initiatives.
- Highlights positive attitudes towards technology among older adults, indicating potential for increased adoption with targeted support.
- Identifies a need for further research into age-related technology use and attitudes, considering the specific needs of the 'younger elderly' demographic.