Positive or negative? A qualitative study on the heterogeneity of ICT use among Chinese older adults
Author(s)
Jin, Yan
Bai, Zhiying
Bi, Chongwu
Sun, Zhuo
Yang, Ruixian
Issue Date
2025-03-11
Keyword(s)
ICT Use
Older Adults
Heterogeneity
Grounded Theory
Abstract
This poster presents the results of a preliminary survey examining Information and Communication Technology (ICT) usage behaviors among older adults in China, with a focus on investigating the heterogeneity of these behaviors and their underlying causes. This study challenges the stereotype that older adults are “digitally disadvantaged” by exploring the types, motivations, meanings, and impacts of their ICT use. Through observation and semi-structured interviews, the preliminary findings reveal a range of factors influencing behavior, including motivation, opportunity, and ability. The findings also indicate that older adults’ ICT behaviors are shaped by both external stimuli and internal responses, resulting in either positive or negative differentiation. By including both ICT users and non-users, this study offers deeper insights into the reasons for variations in ICT access and use among the older population. These results are essential for developing targeted strategies to promote digital inclusion among older adults for service providers, managers, and organizations.
Publisher
iSchools
Series/Report Name or Number
iConference 2025 Proceedings
Type of Resource
Other
Genre of Resource
Conference Poster
Language
eng
Handle URL
https://hdl.handle.net/2142/126237
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2025 is held by Yan Jin, Zhiying Bai, Chongwu Bi, Zhuo Sun, and Ruixian Yang. Copyright permissions, when appropriate, must be obtained directly from the author.
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