Older people's perspectives on virtual mobility

Authors: Heward, M.

Journal: Gerontechnology

Volume: 13

Issue: 4

Pages: 396-404

eISSN: 1569-111X

ISSN: 1569-1101

DOI: 10.4017/gt.2015.13.4.004.00

Abstract:

This paper explores older people's perspectives on virtual mobility, adding to the growing body of literature examining mobility and independence in later life. Drawing on qualitative data from 20 semi-structured interviews with older people in the South of England, three key themes are discussed: (i) types of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) used in later life; (ii) motivations and barriers to using ICT in later life; and (iii) older people's perspectives on virtual mobility. Participants had differing experiences in terms of accessing and using ICT. Half of the participants regularly used ICT, whilst the remaining participants had either tried and did not get on with, or had never used ICT. Motivations for using ICT were cited as: keeping in touch with family and friends, particularly those at a distance; a fascination for technology; a source for information; and receiving such technology as a gift. Whilst barriers to using ICT were identified as: lack of desire; affordability; and a lack of knowledge, skills and confidence. Participants reflected on how they currently substitute or supplement physical with virtual journeys, and saw particular benefit in being mobile through virtual methods if they were to become permanently immobile in the future. The most common ways that the participants were virtually mobile was through their use of emails, online shopping, and video telephone calls. This paper suggests virtual mobility is a timely alternative to physical mobility that could help older people to remain independent and living in their own homes for longer. Therefore, the economic and social benefits, alongside the drawbacks of supplementing or substituting physical with virtual mobility must be considered in policies that support older people, and improve their well-being and social inclusion, both now and in the future.

Source: Scopus