Computer use by middle-aged and older adults with disabilities

Abstract

While technology and its potential to assist elders with disabilities advances, many elders do not use a computer, or find using a computer difficult. In the present study, we surveyed 668 middle aged and older persons with disabilities to better understand how they use their computer, or why they do not use a computer, and their thoughts on computer accessibility. Survey methodology was employed and descriptive statistics were used to report sample characteristics. Results show that a higher percentage of older adults, compared to middle age adults were Internet users. Contact with others beyond the home is important for both middle aged and other adult computer users. The need for assessment and advice on workstation and computer setup seems evident from the large number in both groups reporting discomfort and problems in using their computer. Non-computer users in both the middle age and older adult groups reported that cost, lack of knowledge of a computer and lack of perceived need were the main reasons for not using a computer.