Older adults’ digital technology experiences: a qualitative study

Abstract Background Older persons’ use of digital technology is becoming more prominent due to society’s heavy reliance on mobile and web applications. A positive attitude has been detected among older persons regarding the use of mobile solutions. Digital technology is increasingly used in the provision of health and social care, which can help older persons continue to be independent, and in turn can contribute to older persons’ overall well-being and sense of safety. However, current digital technology has been found to be difficult for older persons. Additional explorations into older persons’ experiences using digital technology are therefore relevant. Method A qualitative design was used with data collected using semi-structured interviews with 17 older persons in the age span 72–101, living in 12 different municipalities. The older persons were admitted to municipality health care. Interviews were conducted in the older persons home, and were audio recorded. The recordings were transcribed and analyzed through a qualitative conventional content analysis. The study method was compliant with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist. Results The analysis resulted in two main categories; Enrichment, dependance and mixed feelings of using digital technology in daily life and Divided preferences and use of digital technology in contact with health and social care . The first is divided into three sub-categories; divided usage and feelings about digital technology, enriching daily life with digital technology , and need for support when using digital technology . The second is divided into two; divided experiences regarding digital communication with health and social care and a longing for information about healthcare through digital technology . Conclusion The diversity showed how older persons cannot be seen as a homogeneous group regarding the use of digital technology. Individual preferences of older persons should be acknowledged by health care professionals and policy makers prior to deciding whether the use of digital technology is preferable, and in which situations. Support and education for older person in using digital technology is essential, as is involving older persons in designing the digital technology that is developed for them to use. Otherwise, older persons may become more dependent on others to manage their everyday life.