Does ICT Use matter? How information and communication technology use affects perceived mattering among a predominantly female sample of older adults residing in retirement communities

ABSTRACT

Within the next 15 years, roughly 20% of individuals in the United States will be aged 65 years and older. As such, a significant portion of the population enters old age, it is imperative to understand the tools and mechanisms that may aid in the maintenance and improvement of older adults’ well-being. Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are tools that may promote well-being through increased connectedness and reduction of isolation and depression. We suggest that ICT use may also enhance mattering, an individual's belief that they are important, acknowledged, and relied upon by others. This study examines the effect of ICT use on older adults’ sense of mattering. Data were collected as part of a multi-site randomized controlled trial study. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of ICT training and use on older adults’ quality of life and well-being. The sample included participants from 19 assisted and independent living communities. Results of our longitudinal and mediation analyses reveal that ICT use, through the promotion of social connectedness, has a significant and positive relationship with mattering. These results suggest that ICT use that facilitates connection and communication with social ties will be beneficial for enhancing well-being among older adults.

KEYWORDS:

• Information and communication technologies (ICTs)
• older adults
• mattering
• aging

Notes on contributors

Jessica Francis is a Doctoral Candidate in the Information & Media program at Michigan State University. Jessica's research focuses on Gerontechnology. Specifically, she is interested in the impact of emerging technology use on aging and well-being. [email: [email protected]]

R. V. Rikard is a Senior Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Department of Media and Information at Michigan State University. His research interests include: the intersection of health literacy and health disparities and the social impact of technology on health and community health [[email protected]].

Shelia R. Cotten is a Professor in the Department of Media and Information at Michigan State University. Her research focuses on technology use across the life course and the social, educational, and health impacts of that use [[email protected]].

Travis Kadylak is a third-year Doctoral Student in the Information & Media program at Michigan State University. In general, his research focuses on information and communication technology use, media habits, aging, and well-being [[email protected]].

Additional information

Funding

This study was funded by a grant from the National Institute on Aging [award number R01AG030425; PI, Shelia R. Cotten].