A1 Journal article (refereed)
Exploring heterogeneous ICT use among older adults : The warm experts’ perspective (2021)

Hänninen, R., Taipale, S., & Luostari, R. (2021). Exploring heterogeneous ICT use among older adults : The warm experts’ perspective. New Media and Society, 23(6), 1584-1601. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820917353

The research was funded by Strategic Research Council at the Research Council of Finland.

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Hänninen, R.; Taipale, S.; Luostari, R.

Journal or series: New Media and Society

ISSN: 1461-4448

eISSN: 1461-7315

Publication year: 2021

Volume: 23

Issue number: 6

Pages range: 1584-1601

Publisher: Sage Publications

Publication country: United Kingdom

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820917353

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/72167

Abstract

In this article, we (1) examine the various forms of support required by older users (75+) of digital technology and (2) provide a concrete, everyday life rationale for why warm experts play such a pivotal role in the processes of adopting and using ICT. Although warm experts are usually not older adults themselves, they provide an important mediating view on the technology use among older people that has not been rigorously addressed in previous studies. Thus, in our analysis we examine the younger family members’ views on acting as warm experts to their older family members. The research data consist of 22 extended group interviews (EGI) and observation carried out in Finland. Based on our analysis, we argue that older adults use ICT in very heterogeneous ways and that the roles bestowed upon warm experts can be understood precisely through this heterogeneity.

Keywords: ageing; older people; digital technology; information and communications technology; adoption (cognition); forms of support; direction (instruction and guidance); family members

Free keywords: aging; digital technology; family; ICT; warm expert

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Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2021

JUFO rating: 3