ICT as Limit, Continuity, and Expansion in the Lives of Low-Income Seniors

• In Event: 1555 - Section on Science, Knowledge, and Technology Refereed Roundtables (1 hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: 3. Examining Inequality: Science and Tech as Solution or Snake Oil?

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are often used to maintain social connections, access information and resources, and facilitate communication. Previous research has illustrated the ways that older adults have used these devices to overcome challenges relating to age and disability. However, most research on older adult ICT use has focused on the experiences of the middle and upper-class, leaving a gap in our understanding of low-income users. Based on interviews with 30 older adults living in income-tested housing developments in Massachusetts, this study explores how the use of ICTs varies greatly across the sample, which can be divided into 3 groups: limited users, who either do not use ICTs at all or, more commonly, have very limited use; active users, who make choices about adopting technologies that help them to overcome obstacles in daily life, to connect with friends and family, and/or to continue hobbies or pastimes; and a third group for whom ICTs expand their social circles and whose creative use of these technologies opens up new opportunities in their lives. As suggested by the social shaping approach, our respondents, especially those in the expansive group, make use of ICTs in unexpected ways, acting as co-creators of the technology as they make use of it. These findings further the understanding of the role ICTs play in the lives of low-income older adults and show how some users are able to make choices to maintain active and vibrant lives and how these choices are facilitated by new technologies.

Authors

• Karen McCormack, Wheaton College

• Anna Lisa VanRemoortel

• Rachel Iafolla, Wheaton College