71. Impact of information and communication technology use on the well-being of older adults in the (post-)COVID-19 pandemic eraNikolaj Lipič, Mitja Bagari, Nejc Krašovec, Marija Ovsenik, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: Introduction: The period during and after the COVID-19 pandemic was marked by accelerated digitalisation and digital transformation. For most older adults, the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) presents numerous challenges and dilemmas, as well as facing hardships and dangers. All of this affects the well-being of older adults. The objective of the study is to examine the impact of ICT use on the well-being of older adults in the (post-)COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A qualitative research approach was applied, with data collected through semi-structured, in-depth, individual interviews with 15 older adults aged 65-87 years. We analysed the data collected using qualitative content analysis. Results: Older adults had different perceptions of the impact of accelerated ICT use on their well-being during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Some reported positive effects of increased ICT use on their well-being, particularly in maintaining social contacts, building stronger connections with others, and improving communication accessibility during limited in- person contact. They also highlighted greater digital confidence. The increased use of ICT during the pandemic was not universal among older adults. Conclusion: For older adults who use ICT moderately or regularly, this use maintained or even encouraged their well-being, while for some, it had no effect. The recommendations of older adults constitute an important contribution of the study for decision-makers in the field of digitalization and the well-being of older adults. They also highlighted the need for basic digital literacy programs for older adults, while accounting for the circumstances that affect their well-being.
Keywords: well-being, ICT use, older adults, digitalisation, digital transformation, COVID-19, satisfaction, digital self-confidence
Published in ReVIS: 09.06.2026; Views: 172; Downloads: 2
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