Influences and Experiences of Using Digital Devices in Laterlife

Abstract

This paper is informed by a qualitative research project that investigated the influences and lived experiences of using digital devices in laterlife. Devices included in the study were computers, mobile phones, cameras, mp3 players and DVDs. Participants in the study were aged 70 to 83 and resided in urban coastal areas of Australia. Researchers found that the adoption of technologies centred on uses and relevance for the digital devices. Pragmatic and affective considerations impelled the older adults to take up specific devices; which then enabled them to be autonomous, functionally independent and enhanced their relationship with others.