Seniors slow to get online
As a host of essential services are looking to the internet to make services more easily and constantly accessible, so too are many of the users of those services. However, it seems as though senior citizens are being left behind as they continue to be wary of adopting the online versions of those services. Some researchers have even referred to the divide between younger and older Internet users as the ‘gray gap.’
More troubling still are the untapped possibilities in small and rural communities where many of these services are often moving, reducing services, or shutting down as they downsize and transition to online services. Indeed, if seniors fail to take advantage of these services on the Internet, they might be neglected by the very services on which they so vitally depend.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University are currently attempting to understand how senior citizens in rural and remote communities are (or are not) using computers for their health and safety. To take part in the study, or for more information, see www.sfu.ca/silversurfers.
COMMENTS
Let's keep comments:
We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters.
We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.