Building Social Inclusion for Rural Older People Using Information and Communication Technologies: Perspectives of Rural Practitioners

Abstract

The literature identifies rural, older people as at risk of social exclusion, as a result of rural disadvantage. In this context, improved access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) has potential to build social inclusion, yet current evidence shows that rural, older people are the lowest current users of technology. This paper draws on the practice and local knowledge of rural practitioners from one Victorian region in order to explore: (a) the practice issues associated with ICT use among rural, older people; and (b) the characteristics of effective practice models in the rural, social work context. An analysis of findings highlights the need to respond to the diverse skills, needs, and learning styles of older people, to demonstrate the benefits of ICTs, involve users, and build confidence. Major barriers include poor ICT usage by many rural agencies and low practitioner capacity, as well as access and resources.

根据文献资料，由于乡村的贫弱，那里的老年人易遭受社会排斥。更易获得的信息和通讯技术本来可以造成社会接纳，但据目前的资料，老年人是最不大使用这些技术的。本文依赖维多利亚省乡村实践者的实践和当地知识，探讨了1）乡村老年人与信息通讯技术使用相关的实践问题；2）乡村社会工作语境中有效的实践模式的特点。根据对有关资料的分析，需要对针对不同的技能、需求以及老年人的学习方式，需要展示信息通讯技术的好处，需要让他们用起来，需要培养他们的信心。主要的障碍包括许多乡村机构疏于使用信息通讯技术，实践者能力低下，渠道和资源不尽人意。

Keywords:

• Older People
• Rural
• Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs)
• Social Inclusion
• Social Work Practice
• Practice Innovations

Acknowledgements

The original discussion document and forum on which this paper is based was funded by the Institute for Social Participation (ISP), La Trobe University. The discussion paper was originally prepared by Dr Tenzin Bathgate at the ISP; and we acknowledge her preparatory work, as well as the enthusiastic input of the practitioners and ICT experts who attended the forum.