The age factor in the digital divide : older adults, the Internet and public policy efforts to bridge the gap

Abstract

The digital divide has been singled out as one of the major problems the world is facing today. Older adults are considered a disadvantaged group in Internet awareness, access and use. Numerous public policy efforts have been made in recent years to eradicate the digital divide in the various factions of society. Statistics have shown that in Malta as in other countries worldwide, age is one of the determining factors of the gap between 'haves' and 'have-nots' in terms of technology. This qualitative study has been directed towards the exploration of the relationship between Maltese older adults and the Internet, to help find ways in which public policy can be applied and improved so as to maximise the quality of life of all citizens through the use of such an important information and communication technology. Following a thorough literature review and the exploration of the research area via communication with staff in public entities, a sample of older adults were interviewed about their uses, attitudes and feelings related to the Internet. The results, construed from a detailed analysis of interview texts, were then interpreted in a larger and more complex context. Based on the findings, it was concluded that although there is a general positive stance towards the Internet among older adults, lack of awareness is still abundant. The study concludes with a recommendation to promote knowledge, information and communication, and thus technologies such as the Internet, as tools that can improve the quality of life of senior citizens.