Misconceptions about Aging and Technology

In this day and age some people are quick to judge the elderly. Ageism and preconceived ideas might make us think that the elderly don’t know how to use technology or that they are not interested in technology. If I made that assumption 10 months ago we all would have missed out on an opportunity to have access to safe virtual exercise during the pandemic. The arrival of COVID has certainly sped up the urgency of getting us all connected through virtual platforms and social media. I truly believe at any age we should always make a concerted effort to reach out and keep everyone connected.

If we assume and verbalize that the elderly is incapable or reluctant to use technology, they might just start believing it themselves and miss out on technological opportunities to fulfil their needs. Therefore, it is important that we keep an open mind when it comes to aging and technology. Our growing elderly communities span over a broad age base from 65 – 100+.

Although research shows that participation in technology does decline with age, there is an abundance of the young-old that is familiar with tech and happy to utilize it. Living in an urban community with educated elders that are not only geographically connected, but also socially motivated by their peers promote participation. It is also evident that the elderly here in Canada utilize social media to stay in touch with family across distanced provinces or abroad. Unfortunately geography and economics has a substantial negative influence on technology use in our more remote Northern locations. So we should not assume that everyone has the same opportunity, accessibility, provision and knowledge where it comes to the use of technology. We have to keep working on the infrastructure and education to give equal access to all.

Sadly some have a preference NOT to use technology. Perhaps resultant of a preconceived idea or fear for the unknown. We have a duty to instill trust, support and educate everyone in these misconceptions so that they can also be included in the rapidly changing digital world of technology. We should promote the participation in technology by these appropriate words stated by our former Major of Mississauga, Hazel McCallion whom has single handedly proven all ageist myths to be incorrect.

“It is my strong belief that every person, young and old, can and should live a life of purpose. To do this each person deserves respect, choice and independence.”

– Hazel McCallion Chief Elder Officer, Revera Inc. Chancellor, Sheridan

References:

Sheridan Centre for Elder Research and Revera (2016). Revera Report on Ageism: Independence and choice as we age. Centre for Publications and Scholarship, Sheridan College. Retrieved January 2018 from http://www.ageismore.com/getmedia/6daed059-2e80-443a-8e71-717de14a5b03/Independence_and_Choice_Report_2016.pdf.aspx

Source: The World report on ageing, WHO 2015.

https://www.who.int/ageing/features/internet-intervention-dementia/en/