Mobile Digital Divide Depicted: a Field Study of the Older Adults in Sichuan, China

Mobile Digital Divide Depicted: a Field Study of the Older Adults in Sichuan, China

The extant literature demonstrates that the age-related digital divide prevents older adults from enhancing their quality of life. The research aims to characterize the mobile divide and promote active aging. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 24 older adults recruited from western China and employed content analysis for data analysis. The main contributions include 1) older adults who are internet users showing a "mobile leapfrog" effect; 2) older adults do not have enough operational and information skills, and most of them lack strategic skills; 3) participants use smartphones more for expressive purposes; 4) a classification scheme of smartphone usage among seniors. Further, results point to an intellectual benchmark for future exploring related issues. The findings can enhance the well-being of this under-studied age group by promoting their digital engagement.

Zhang, Yuhao; Jia, Shiwei; Yan, Hui

Chinese American Librarians Association

2023-06-09

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Poster; Text