Ageism & Digital Technology: Policy Measures to Address Ageism as a Barrier to Adoption and Use of Digital Technology

In a rapidly digitalizing society, equal opportunities to access and use digital technology are essential for social inclusion and participation. Older people are however often highly stereotyped regarding their abilities to use and learn how to use digital technology. This policy brief emphasizes the idea that ageism can be a barrier to the use and adoption of digital technology, and suggests recommendations to address this burning issue.

Key messages

• Ageism is a key barrier that affects design, adoption and use of digital technology.
• Ageism in the context of digital technology occurs on the macro (design & policy)-, meso (social and organizational environment)- and micro (individual)- level. These three levels also interact and influence each other.
• A paradigm shift is needed in our understanding of: What digital technologies older persons want and need; older individuals’ abilities to use digital technology; and how older persons are included and have a “say” in the design process of digital technology and related policies.
• In order to improve digital literacy and increase use and adoption of digital technology among older persons, policy interventions need to focus on eliminating stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination based on age, rather than accepting ageing per se as a barrier to the use and adoption of digital technology.