Har digitaliseringen i Sverige tappat bort de äldre?

: Digitalisering och äldre personers förutsättningar att bemästra sin tillvaro i det digitala samhället

Abstract

In Sweden, the digital transformation is fast. Research shows that there are vulnerable groups of elderly who do not use digital tools frequently and do not have access to services they need. This study examines whether access to and use of digital tools affects older people's ability to manage their lives. Mastery is measured based on theories of Self-efficacy, Internal and External Locus of Control and Sense of Coherence. The participants (n=144) in the study were elderly people who responded to an online survey and therefore used digital tools. This was an essential limitation that affected the result. No significant differences in mastery were found based on the use of digital tools or demographic factors among participants. Experience of professionally having worked regularly with computers was a key factor in the significant relational findings with small effects that appeared. Participants who reported this experience indicated higher mastery skills than those who did not report that experience. It argues for that differences in mastery are greater in more diverse groups of elderly. It supports research that suggests that digitization affects the quality of life of the elderly. Participants highlight that not everyone wants or are able to use digital tools and call for education and practical support in the use of digital tools. It supports studies showing that groups of elderly cannot participate in the digitized society and studies that highlights the importance of lifelong learning.