Abstract:

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly reduced the quality of life for the entire population, from children to the elderly. Technological tools have served as a means to maintain social connectedness. When discussing the dichotomy between the population and technology, a naïve theory often excludes the elderly population aged 65 and above. However, data from ISTAT's 2019 annual report indicate a considerable increase in internet usage among the elderly in Italy, from 6% to 34%.

This paper presents the results of a research study conducted from March to May 2020 and from March to May 2021 on a group of 100 elderly individuals (50 males, 50 females) with an average age of 70. The research question posed to them was: "How do elderly individuals utilize technological tools in their daily lives?".

From the analysis of interviews, it emerges that while the elderly perceived the change brought about by the pandemic, they found it relatively manageable. Physical distancing highlighted a primary need for mental health: social interaction. Indeed, all interviewees found ways to stay in touch, albeit differently, utilizing technological tools. During 2020, the purpose of interaction remained, but with increased functionalities such as video calls, online classes, and meetings. In 2021, the elderly delved into additional functionalities such as online payments, internet banking, and medical prescriptions. This specialization in technological tool usage is noted in their ability to critically understand features that would make technologies elderly-friendly: simplicity, immediate feedback, theoretical vs. practical study, and frequency of usage. The perceived difficulty in usage and repeated requests for support are not due to a lack of digital skills but rather the presence of numerous applications and platforms with myriad functionalities. Furthermore, the majority of elderly individuals reported learning to use PCs through formal training or reading books, whereas learning to use new tools often involves trial and error, emphasizing practical over theoretical study. Intergenerational support is crucial for the elderly. Support from younger, more technologically competent generations facilitates an exchange that benefits both parties. Family members, particularly grandchildren and children, are identified as primary sources of support and potential educators. Overall, the elderly participants demonstrated proficiency in utilizing technological tools to meet their daily needs. They provided feedback on how inclusive technological tools should be designed and implemented for their age group. These results can inform professionals in technology design, educators in designing training activities, and policymakers in creating projects that consider the needs, requirements, and potentials of the elderly.

The research has some limitations, including the absence of direct visual contact with interviewees, the limited geographical scope (focused on the Marche region), and the lack of instrument validation due to the small number of collected questionnaires.

Future work suggestions include interviewing elderly individuals from other regions of Italy, administering the questionnaire in person to the group and promoting intergenerational training on technological tools.

Keywords:

Elderly, Pandemic, Technology, Lifelong learning, Intergenerational support.