Digital Technology and Elderly Well-being: An Exploratory Study of Digital Usage, Loneliness and Well-being

Description

Page: 61-65

Priyanshi Gupta, Anshu Yadav, Ekta Bhambri Marwaha, and Aashima Sharma (Department of Applied Psychology, Shyama Prasad Mukherji College for Women, University of Delhi, Delhi)

The present study explores the relationship between digital technology usage, well-being, and loneliness among elderly individuals, defined as those aged 60 and above. The increasing integration of digital media into daily life necessitates an understanding of its impact on elderly individuals. Digital technology has the potential to improve well-being and reduce loneliness among elderly individuals, making it essential to explore this relationship. This study aims to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by investigating the relationship between digital technology usage, well-being, and loneliness among elderly individuals. A total of 80 participants, with an equal gender distribution, completed the self designed questionnaire on digital technology usage, WHO-5 Well-being Index and Loneliness Inventory by Uma and Meenakshi. The present study was aimed to understand the extent of digital technology usage in elderly, to explore the reasons for digital technology usage in elderly based on various demographics, gender, age , education, family setup, to investigate the relationship amongst digital technology usage , well-being and loneliness. The findings reveal that 40 percent of the individuals were using digital gadgets for health purposes. Mobile phones and television emerged as the most commonly used devices for information and entertainment, with moderate level digital media engagement. While the sample size and no standardized tools were used, the study provides valuable insights into digital technology’s role in enhancing well being and reducing loneliness among the elderly. These findings can inform future research, policy development, and interventions aimed at promoting healthier digital technology usage to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals.