Work

Older Adults’ Current and Potential Uses of Information Technologies in a Changing World

Year: 2014

Type: review

Abstract: Technologies have become a major force in people's lives. They change how people interact with the environment, even as the environment changes. We propose that technology use in the setting of changing environments is motivated by essential needs and tensions experienced by the individual. We apply three developmental and behavioral theories (Erikson's stages of psychosocial development, Maslow's hierarchy of needs, and Bronfenbrenner's ecological model) to explain technology-related behaviors among older adults. We consider how technology use has addressed and can address major ecological changes, in three areas: health promotion, natural disasters, and disparities. We propose that considering these theories can help researchers and developers ensure that technologies will help promote a healthier world for older adults.

Source: The International Journal of Aging and Human Development

DOI: 10.1177/0091415015591109

Authors: Uba Backonja, Amanda K. Hall, Stephen Thielke

Institutions: University of Washington, VA Puget Sound Health Care System

Language: English

Topic: Technology Use by Older Adults

Subfield: Demography

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine