Demographic and Psychographic Factors of Social Isolation During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Importance of Technology Confidence

The COVID-19 pandemic presents an unprecedented situation in which physical distancing and “stay at home” orders have increased the pressures for social isolation. Critically, certain demographic factors have been linked to increased feelings of isolation and loneliness. These at-risk groups for social isolation may be disproportionately affected by the changes and restrictions that have been implemented to prevent viral spread. In our analysis, we sought to evaluate if perceived feelings of social isolation, during the COVID-19 pandemic, was related to demographic and technology-related psychographic characteristics. Older adults across Canada were surveyed about their demographic background, their feelings concerning confidence and proficiency in technology use, and how frequently they have felt isolated during the pandemic. In total 927 responses from Canadians over 65 years old, of varying demographic characteristics were collected. Our data shows that many older adults are feeling isolated “Often” or “Some of the time” in 2020, regardless of most demographic factors that have been previously associated with increased isolation risk. However, feelings of proficiency in using technology was an important factor affecting feelings of isolation. Given that technology proficiency is a modifiable factor, and remained significant after adjustment for demographic factors, future efforts to reduce social isolation should consider training programs for older adults to improve technology confidence, especially in an increasingly digital world.

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Bridging the Digital Divide for Older Adults via Intergenerational Mentor-Up

Research on Social Work Practice ◽

10.1177/1049731518810798 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 29 (7) ◽

pp. 786-795 ◽

Cited By ~ 7

Author(s):

Othelia Eun-Kyoung Lee ◽

Do-Hong Kim

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Digital Divide ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Qualitative Data ◽

Training Needs ◽

Mixed Methods Study ◽

Ehealth Literacy ◽

Intergenerational Interaction ◽

Parallel Fashion

Objectives: The effectiveness of Intergenerational Mentor-Up (IMU), an innovative intervention that engages college students in tutoring older adults, was examined with regard to eHealthy literacy and social isolation. Method: A total of 55 older adults (mean age = 73.82) participated in the six-session IMU tutorials. In this mixed methods study, quantitative and qualitative data were collected in a parallel fashion. Participants were interviewed after participating in the IMU. Results: Older adults presented significant improvement between pre- and postsurveys in various outcomes such as eHealth literacy, technophobia, self-efficacy, and interest in technology. Intergenerational interaction brought about by IMU helped to decrease social isolation among older adults. Qualitative data revealed that individualized training, modifications, adaptations, and intergenerational interactions can decrease their anxiety and boost their confidence. Discussion: Study findings enable the identification of the training needs to help close the digital divide and allow these older adults to reap the benefits of technology use.

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Older adults experiences of technology use for socialization during the COVID-19 pandemic: A random cross-sectional survey (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.28010 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Kristen R. Haase ◽

Theodore Cosco ◽

Lucy Kervin ◽

Indira Riadi ◽

Megan E. O'Connell

Keyword(s):

Mental Health ◽

Older Adults ◽

British Columbia ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Random Sampling ◽

Population Based ◽

Critical Approach ◽

Cross Sectional Survey ◽

Cross Sectional

BACKGROUND Technology has become the most critical approach to maintain social connectedness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Older adults (over age 65) are perceived as most physiologically vulnerable to COVID-19 and at risk of secondary mental health challenges related to social isolation imposed by virus containment strategies. To mitigate concerns regarding sampling bias we used a random sampling of older adults to understand uptake and acceptance of technologies to support socialization during the pandemic. OBJECTIVE To conduct a random population-based assessment of the barriers and facilitators to engaging in technology use for virtual socialization amongst older adults in the Canadian province of British Columbia during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional population-based survey using random-digit dialing to participants over age 65 living in British Columbia. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with open-text responses analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Respondents included 400 older adults with an average age of 72 years old and 63.7% female. Most respondents (89.5%) were aware of how to use technology to connect with others and slightly more than half (56%) reported using technology differently to connect with others during the pandemic. 55.9% of respondents reported adopting new technology since the beginning of the pandemic. Older adults reported key barriers to using technology including: (1) lack of access (including finance, knowledge, and age); (2) lack of interest (including a preference for telephone, and a general lack of interest in computers); and (3) physical barriers (resultant of cognitive impairments, stroke, and arthritis). Older adults reported numerous facilitators, including: (1) knowledge of technologies (whether self-taught or via external courses); (2) reliance on others (family, friends, and general internet searching); (3) technology accessibility (including environments, user-friendly technology, and receiving clear instructions); and (4) social motivation (because everyone else is doing it). CONCLUSIONS Much data on older adults use of technology is limited by sampling biases, but the current study that used random sampling demonstrated that older adults used technology to mitigate social isolation during the pandemic. Virtual socialization is most promising to mitigate potential mental health effects related to virus containment strategies. Addressing barriers by mobilizing telephone training and task lists, and mobilizing facilitators described by participants such as facilitated socialization activities are important strategies that can be implemented within and beyond the pandemic to bolster the mental health needs of older adults.

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OLDER ADULTS’ SOCIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND WELL-BEING IN A DIGITAL WORLD

Innovation in Aging ◽

10.1093/geroni/igz038.050 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. S14-S14

Author(s):

Shannon T Mejia ◽

Sara J Czaja

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Technology Adoption ◽

Social Integration ◽

Social Relationships ◽

Technology Use ◽

Internet Use ◽

Well Being ◽

Digital World ◽

Use Of Technology ◽

Challenges And Opportunities

Abstract As adults age into a digitally connected world, communication technologies such as the internet, email, social media, and video chats offer new opportunities to connect with others. The implications of older adults’ use of technology in the context of their social relationships—such as the implications for social integration, the relational circumstances of technology adoption, implications for daily experiences of well-being, and opportunities to form new relationships—are less understood. This symposium brings together diverse and complementary perspectives on the contribution of technology to older adults’ social experiences. We begin with inquiry into implications of internet use for social integration. Hees and colleagues use data from the German Ageing Survey to examine how internet use is associated with change in loneliness over a three-year period in older adults who are either before or after retirement. Our symposium continues with papers on technology use within the context of older adults’ existing close relationships. Chopik examines individual and dyadic predictors of technology adoption. Mejía and colleagues consider the implications for digital social interactions for older adult’s well-being on that day. Our final paper discusses the potential for technology to aid in the development of new relationships. Rogers and colleagues describe findings from their OneClick.chat project, a web-based video chat application that connects older adults based on their shared interests. Our session concludes with a discussion led by Czaja, who will integrate the four papers and discuss the challenges and opportunities of using technology to support older adults’ social relationships and well-being.

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Introducing the Attitudes toward Technology Longitudinal Aging Study (ATLAS): Initial Wave 1 Findings

Innovation in Aging ◽

10.1093/geroni/igab046.3405 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. 951-952

Author(s):

Robin Stuart

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Mobile Device ◽

Technology Use ◽

Attitudes Toward Technology ◽

Technology Proficiency ◽

Adoption Of Technology ◽

Age Related ◽

Aging Study ◽

Longitudinal Aging Study ◽

Over Time

Abstract Differences between younger and older adults' use and adoption of technology have declined over the past two decades, though the mechanisms behind observed trends are uncertain. Few longitudinal studies have tried to capture detailed changes in technology attitudes, adoption, and usage over time among older adults. This presentation presents newly collected data from the first wave of the Attitudes toward Technology Longitudinal Aging Study (ATLAS), a 5-wave questionnaire-based longitudinal study of older adults' attitudes toward technology and levels of technology use (N = 88; Men = 30; Women = 58; Mage = 69.7 years). We present baseline characteristics of Wave 1 and explore predictors of technology use, adoption, and proficiency. Waves 2 through 5 will assess changes in these domains. Wave 1 results replicated previous findings in that older age was associated with lower computer and mobile device proficiency (computer: r = -.219*, p < .05 , mobile device: r = -.291**, p < .01). However, there was variability among both types of proficiency (McomputerProf = 27.39, SD = 3.57 ; MmobileProf = 31.52, SD = 9.21), indicating room for change over time. Both types of proficiency were correlated with level of technology use (computer: r = -.219*, p < .05 , mobile device: r = -.572***, p < .001). Taken together, these initial relationships suggest the possibility that future waves will see changes in technology use predicted by changes in age-related differences in technology proficiency and attitudes.

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The Effect of Technology Use in Reducing Social Isolation or Loneliness in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Innovation in Aging ◽

10.1093/geroni/igaa057.3400 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. 927-927

Author(s):

Yoon Chung Kim ◽

Gail Kohn ◽

Carenado Davis ◽

Pamela Saunders

Keyword(s):

Systematic Review ◽

Older Adults ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Economic Status ◽

Critical Factor ◽

Effective Strategies ◽

Phone Calls ◽

Use Of Technology ◽

National Emergency

Abstract The US population over 65 is projected to increase to 21% by 2050. Given mobility issues arising from health concerns, economic status changes, loss of friends and partners, older people are at a higher risk for social isolation and loneliness. Since the declaration of national emergency for COVID-19 on March 13, 2020, many older adults have not been able to connect with others in traditional ways. Instead, activities and contacts have been facilitated virtually via videoconferencing or phone calls to maintain physical and social distance. Amidst COVID-19, the transition to using technologies to connect socially and reduce loneliness has been a critical factor in preventing social isolation and loneliness. Identifying effective strategies involving the use of technology, designing new ways to deliver services virtually, and developing educational programs to promote technology is vitally necessary. This systematic review explored the relationship between technology use and social isolation or loneliness, and examined interventions that reduced social isolation in older adults. A unified strategy was used to systematically search seven databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycInfo, and AgeLine) to examine qualitative and quantitative studies published in English between 2010 and 2020. Preliminary results indicate that technology can alleviate social isolation and loneliness in older adults despite some mixed results. The findings of this study will provide a foundation for policymakers and practitioners to shape policies and design programs that help older adults to alleviate social isolation and loneliness, particularly amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Impact of the AGE-ON Tablet Training Program on Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Attitudes Toward Technology in Older Adults: Single-Group Pre-Post Study (Preprint)

10.2196/preprints.18398 ◽

2020 ◽

Author(s):

Sarah E Neil-Sztramko ◽

Giulia Coletta ◽

Maureen Dobbins ◽

Sharon Marr

Keyword(s):

Quality Of Life ◽

Social Support ◽

Older Adults ◽

Training Program ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Attitudes Toward Technology ◽

Basic Features ◽

The Impact

BACKGROUND The internet and technology can help older adults connect with family and friends. However, many older adults face obstacles to internet and technology use, such as lack of knowledge or self-efficacy. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of the AGE-ON tablet training program on social isolation, loneliness, and quality of life. METHODS Adults aged >60 years took part in a series of 6 weekly workshops covering the basic features of a tablet. Before and after the program, social isolation, loneliness, social support, and quality of life were assessed. In addition, data on current tablet use and attitudes toward technology use were collected. Satisfaction with the program was also assessed at the end of the study using 6 Likert scale questions. RESULTS The participants (N=32; mean age 76.3, SD 8.6 years) were predominantly female (n=20, 63%) and retired (n=30, 94%). The participants reported that they were highly satisfied with the program. After completing the program, no differences in social isolation, loneliness, social support, or quality of life were found. Frequency of tablet use increased and the attitudes of the participants toward technology improved. CONCLUSIONS The AGE-ON program resulted in increased tablet use frequency and may improve comfort and attitudes toward tablet use among older adults. This program may assist older adults in overcoming obstacles to internet and technology use to better connect with family and friends; however, further work targeting older adults who are socially isolated or at risk of social isolation is needed to more fully understand whether tablet training programs are beneficial in this population. CLINICALTRIAL ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03472729; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03472729

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Understanding Racial and Rural Disparities in the Relationship between Social Isolation and Social Technology Use

Innovation in Aging ◽

10.1093/geroni/igab046.3346 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 5 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. 933-933

Author(s):

Kaileigh Byrne ◽

Reza Ghaiumy Anaraky ◽

Hannah Barfield ◽

Summerlin Nickel

Keyword(s):

Social Support ◽

Older Adults ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Linear Regression Analysis ◽

Negative Relationship ◽

Multiple Linear Regression Analysis ◽

Social Technology ◽

Increased Risk ◽

The Relationship

Abstract Social isolation is characterized by lack of social contacts and high degrees of loneliness. Feelings of loneliness and social isolation are linked to declines in cognitive functioning and increased risk of dementia. Previous research suggests that loneliness is more prevalent among Black and rural older adults compared to White and urban-dwelling older adults. Given these disparities, it is important to identify methods that reduce social isolation and loneliness among this population. Social technology, such as Facebook and Skype, is one possible way to connect with others. This study uses the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) dataset to examine racial and rural disparities in the relationship between social technology use and social isolation, loneliness, and social support among individuals age 50 and older. The overarching hypotheses are that (1) rural-dwelling older adults and older Blacks will report less social technology use compared to urban-dwelling and older White adults, and (2) there will be a negative relationship between loneliness and social technology use, and (3) a positive relationship between perceived positive social support and social technology use. Racial or rural disparities in these latter potential relationships are exploratory. Multiple linear regression analysis will be performed to assess these relationships. Preliminary correlational results indicate that, consistent with prior work, greater use of social technology was associated with higher social support (N=6,029; r=.29, p<.001). However, contrary to our hypothesis, greater self-reported loneliness was associated with greater social technology (r=.09, p<.001). Examination of potential racial and rural disparities in these relationships are currently underway.

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Impact of the AGE-ON Tablet Training Program on Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Attitudes Toward Technology in Older Adults: Single-Group Pre-Post Study

JMIR Aging ◽

10.2196/18398 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 3 (1) ◽

pp. e18398

Author(s):

Sarah E Neil-Sztramko ◽

Giulia Coletta ◽

Maureen Dobbins ◽

Sharon Marr

Keyword(s):

Quality Of Life ◽

Social Support ◽

Older Adults ◽

Training Program ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Attitudes Toward Technology ◽

Basic Features ◽

The Impact

Background The internet and technology can help older adults connect with family and friends. However, many older adults face obstacles to internet and technology use, such as lack of knowledge or self-efficacy. Objective The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of the AGE-ON tablet training program on social isolation, loneliness, and quality of life. Methods Adults aged >60 years took part in a series of 6 weekly workshops covering the basic features of a tablet. Before and after the program, social isolation, loneliness, social support, and quality of life were assessed. In addition, data on current tablet use and attitudes toward technology use were collected. Satisfaction with the program was also assessed at the end of the study using 6 Likert scale questions. Results The participants (N=32; mean age 76.3, SD 8.6 years) were predominantly female (n=20, 63%) and retired (n=30, 94%). The participants reported that they were highly satisfied with the program. After completing the program, no differences in social isolation, loneliness, social support, or quality of life were found. Frequency of tablet use increased and the attitudes of the participants toward technology improved. Conclusions The AGE-ON program resulted in increased tablet use frequency and may improve comfort and attitudes toward tablet use among older adults. This program may assist older adults in overcoming obstacles to internet and technology use to better connect with family and friends; however, further work targeting older adults who are socially isolated or at risk of social isolation is needed to more fully understand whether tablet training programs are beneficial in this population. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03472729; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03472729

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Experiences with Technology Amongst an International Sample of Older Adults: Results from a Qualitative Interpretive Meta-Synthesis

The British Journal of Social Work ◽

10.1093/bjsw/bcab040 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Vivian J Miller ◽

Erin M Roark ◽

Noelle L Fields ◽

Courtney Cronley

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Social Work ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Well Being ◽

Information And Communications Technology ◽

World Health ◽

Subjective Well Being ◽

Negative Impacts ◽

Nuanced Understanding

Abstract Identifying and implementing effective strategies to combat social exclusion and isolation is critical, given that eradicating social isolation has been identified as one of the social work profession’s main goals. Training older adults to use information and communications technology (ICT) effectively may be an appropriate intervention to combat and mitigate the negative impacts of social isolation within the aging population. ICT has demonstrated promise with older adults, with research demonstrating that older adults with higher technology use report better self-reported physical health and subjective well-being. Given this promise, the authors of this study seek to create more nuanced understanding of the experience of ICT usage, as told by an international sample of older adults using a qualitative interpretive meta-synthesis (QIMS). Using the QIMS methodology paired with phenomenological reduction, the authors synthesised nine (N = 9) qualitative studies through the lens of the World Health Organization’s age-friendly domains. This process resulted in three overarching themes that describe older adults’ experiences engaging with technology: ‘desire for empowerment’, ‘connection’ and ‘aging well’. Findings from this study highlight overall benefits of technology use among older adults aging in the community. This study concludes with implications for social work research and practice.

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Technology and Social Isolation Among Older Adults

Innovation in Aging ◽

10.1093/geroni/igaa057.1331 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 4 (Supplement_1) ◽

pp. 413-413

Author(s):

Allison Dunatchik ◽

Jerry Jacobs

Keyword(s):

Older Adults ◽

Social Isolation ◽

Technology Use ◽

Health Spending ◽

Information Communication ◽

Social Time ◽

New Information ◽

The Us ◽

The Uk ◽

Watching Tv

Abstract In this paper, we use time-use data from the US (2003-2018) and the UK (2001-2015) to address important questions about recent trends in social isolation and technology use among older adults aged 65 and over. Do new information, communication and robotic technologies contribute to growing social isolation among older adults or to growing opportunities for social connection? We believe that answers to these questions require a consideration of technologies that are already widely in use. We ask whether TV time is social time or whether people spend most of their time watching TV by themselves, whether this has changed over the past 15 years and what the potential implications are for wellbeing among older adults. The results show that TV time is a mixed experience among older adults. In the US and the UK, a substantial proportion of TV time – around half – is spent alone, with those who are not married, those in rented accommodations and those with poorer self-rated health spending more time watching TV alone. Controlling for demographic and household characteristics, TV time alone has increased in recent years, accompanying an increase in time spent alone in general in the UK and an increase in TV time in general in the US. Analysis of moment-to-moment wellbeing shows that individuals report lower positive affect while watching TV alone than while watching with others, suggesting the increase in time spent watching TV alone may have negative implications wellbeing among older adults.

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