Exploring Relationships Between Normative Aging, Technology, and Communication

Abstract

Semistructured interviews with an educated sample explored normative aging processes and computer ownership regarding change in communication patterns over a decade among older adults as they progressed through events of the life course. Findings indicated that many of the changes concerned normative aging processes: living arrangements, physical limitations, retirement, and aging of communication partners. Changes in communication mediums aided by technology and how technology affected medium of preference for use, frequency, and quantity of communication also were found. Participant responses indicated computer ownership and Internet access increased the total social network, frequency of communication, quality of relationships, and helped reinstate distant/past friendships.

KEYWORDS:

• aging
• communication
• computers
• older adults
• quality of life
• social network
• technology