Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.15291/libellarium.3906
Digital technology and senior citizens in the city of Osijek: a quantitative study
Kornelija Petr Balog
orcid.org/0000-0002-4970-9446
; Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of J. J. Strossmayer of Osijek, Osijek Croatia
Sanjica Faletar
orcid.org/0000-0001-7387-6458
; Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of J. J. Strossmayer of Osijek, Osijek Croatia
Tomislav Jakopec
; Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of J. J. Strossmayer of Osijek, Osijek Croatia
Abstract
Purpose. The world population is continuously ageing, and a significant amount of world efforts has already been dedicated to increasing the quality of life of the population in the age-group of 65+. A way to achieve this goal is to introduce older generations to the benefits of digital technology. This paper presents the findings of a study on digital technology adoption and the online information needs of senior citizens in the city of Osijek, Croatia.
Methodology. The study was conducted on a sample of 188 participants from September to December 2021. The data was collected by the means of a paper survey distributed to respondents in several locations: a local senior care home, the farmers market, and a non-profit organization.
Findings. The respondents in our sample prefer smartphones (49.5%) and personal computers or laptops (27.7%) over tablet computers and smartwatches. The internet is used by almost 70% of the respondents, mostly for purposeful searches for information or communication. E-learning, e-shopping, or e-government applications are used rarely. The study detected significant differences in digital technology use concerning gender, age, life satisfaction and living with a partner.
Social implications. In order to support and promote the active ageing of senior citizens in Osijek, a more systematic approach at the level of city administration is needed in order to ensure a better understanding and use of digital technology by this vulnerable demographic group.
Originality. The paper presents a valuable contribution to further understanding the ICT adoption, skills and online information behaviour of senior citizens in Osijek, Croatia.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
300145
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2022.
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