Computer attitudes, cognitive abilities, and technology usage among older Japanese adults

Abstract

This study investigates the relationships among computer attitudes, cognitive abilities, and the usage of various technologies among older Japanese adults. Methods. Fifty Japanese adults, 32 males and 18 females, aged 60 to 80, participated. Participants' experience of usage and possession of 18 products and services that utilize various technologies were investigated by questionnaire. The Attitudes Toward Computers Questionnaire (ATCQ) was employed to assess the computer attitudes of the participants. Spatial visualization, spatial orientation, associative memory, perceptual speed, and field independence were measured using the Kit for Factor-Referenced Cognitive Tests. Results showed a variation in the percentages of participants who had used the assessed products and services (usage ratio) from 8% to 94%. Gender difference could be seen only in the Control subscale of the ATCQ scores, while a significant gender difference could be seen in all cognitive ability factors examined except for associative memory. More positive computer attitudes, especially regarding Comfort and Interest, were related not only to greater usage of computers but also to the greater usage of a number of computerized products and services. Some of the computer attitude subscales were also found to be related to the usage of products and services whose usage ratios were relatively low. On the other hand, higher cognitive abilities, especially spatial abilities and field independence, were related to the use of products and services whose usage ratio were relatively high. Discussion. The implications of the results include the possibilities of mutual relationships among computer attitudes, cognitive abilities, and technology usage among older adults, utilization of one of these factors as a predictor for others, as well as for the design of interventions and training strategies.