Elderly and ICT – communication skills and quality of life

Abstract

Objectives: Determine whether the Internet use and, more specifically, its communication tools, can contribute to a senior e-inclusion and the life quality improvement as well as expose a process of digital literacy for elderly. Method: It was taught a computer course to a 14 elderly group. The means used in this investigation were 2 surveys (initial and final), as well a direct and participant observation. The data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Results: The investigation revealed that the use of computers and the Internet reduces loneliness, increases access to information, as well as the frequency of communication between family members and friends. Consequently, the quality of life of older people increases. Conclusions: The use of ICT gives the elderly more autonomy, greater well-being and social integration and, therefore, higher rate of happiness.