Abstract
AbstractThis pilot study aimed to bridge the digital divide between older and younger adults. The goal was for older people in the state to become digitally literate by engaging them in a program that provides digital devices (i.e., Apple iPads), internet connectivity (i.e., through HotSpots), and training from supervised university student mentors. This project, funded as a key policy initiative through the state's unit on aging, specifically promoted social and economic equity by targeting participants from lower‐income communities and areas hit hardest by the COVID‐19 pandemic. Our university partnered with senior/community centers to recruit and support English‐ and Spanish‐speaking adults 50 years of age and older (age range: 55‐100, M=72.3, SD=8.5). For this paper, we examined changes in technology use and digital competence from the pre‐ to the post‐survey (collected over the phone) from older participants (N=145), and we examined how the program contributed to new ways for participants to connect to community resources. Based on statistical analyses, participants improved in digital competence (pre=2.06, post=2.74), technology use (pre=1.99, post=2.70), tablet use (pre=1.53, post=4.08), and the number of purposes in which participants used technology (pre=4.09, post=5.55; p's<.01). Themes that arose from the qualitative data included feeling more capable and confident in searching out new information, now knowing where to find activities and resources, and meeting with doctors and booking health appointments. This program addressed a significant community need during the pandemic and had success working with community partners. Policies for state grants that support broadband equity, digital literacy and digital equity initiatives should utilize this research to inform their efforts to address digital inclusion needs for older adults.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
