Smartphone use and internet literacy of senior citizens

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the effects of smartphone use on the internet literacy and use by senior citizens.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical study.

Findings

The results indicate that the use of smartphones does significantly impact the internet literacy and use of older individuals. Educational background and the duration of smartphone use enhance the ability of seniors to use the internet.

Research limitations/implications

A similar study can be conducted in other different countries and see the effect (if any) of national cultures and the type/purpose of usage of the internet; an expansion of this research, with a larger sample size, and more variables would shed greater insight on this important topic.

Practical implications

Study provide suggestions to governments, in cooperation with the private sectors, on how to diminish the digital divide for senior citizens not only to improve their well-being, but also because seniors are an important resource that contributes to society financially and intellectually.

Social implications

Technology is an important factor that can be used to not only alleviate some of the burden and improve the quality of life of senior citizens, but it can also help increase seniors’ contributions to the society.

Originality/value

This study contributes in the digital divide research: (digital divide) for senior citizens, contributing factors, and the importance of decreasing it.

Citation

Hong, S.G., Trimi, S. and Kim, D.W. (2016), "Smartphone use and internet literacy of senior citizens", Journal of Assistive Technologies, Vol. 10 No. 1, pp. 27-38. https://doi.org/10.1108/JAT-03-2015-0006