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2019 Annual Conference

October 8–11, 2019

St. Louis, MO

Mobile device use by rural older adults: attitudes, perceived benefits, and barriers

Wednesday, October 9, 2019 at 5:00 PM–6:30 PM CDT
Grand DE
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Adult Development

Presentation Format Requested

Poster (60-90 minutes)

Session Abstract

This study aims to explore the attitudes and acceptance of mobile device use by rural older adults. Perceived benefits, barriers, and deterrent of using mobile devices will be examined. Based on the findings, future implications of providing a quality learning environment for older adults will be discussed. 

Target Audience

The targeted audience of this session includes graduate students, administrators and staff, faculty, researchers, and anyone who are interested in enhancing the quality of older adults’ learning environment.  

Learning Outcomes

After attending this session, participants will be able to:
1. Understand the current trend of mobile device use by older adults.
2. Understand the needs and expectations of rural older adults using mobile devices.
3. Identify the attitude, perceived benefits, barriers, and the deterrent of using mobile devices of older adults.
4. Identify personal characteristics that influence the use of mobile devices by older adults
5. Reflect on the future opportunities for providing resources for this group

Session Description

As the number of older people increases, the need for teaching technological skills that support aging well is urgent. Technology and mobile devices have been found to be beneficial for older adults by supporting health, independence, safety, and social engagement. Chiu et al. (2005) found out that older adults who participated in mobile app training session had significantly lower depressive symptoms scores compared to others. Older adults acknowledge that perceived communication and safety have enhanced by using mobile phones (Plaza et al., 2011). The trend of using mobile devices among older adults can hold significant promise for enhancing the quality of life of the older population, especially for older adults living in rural areas who have lower social functioning than those living in urban areas (Baernholdt et al., 2013). Nevertheless, despite the benefits brought by new technology, many older adults experience difficulties in learning and using mobile devices. To better assist this group with new technology, exploring how seniors perceive and use mobile devices is critical. This result of this research will highlight the importance of providing a quality learning environment for older adults to satisfy the requirements and needs of older people in terms of lifelong learning. 

Format & Technique
  1. Briefly introduce the importance of this study and the current trend of mobile device use by older adults.
  2. Detail the specifics of research questions, methodology, and procedure.
  3. Discuss the needs and requirements of mobile devices by older groups.
  4. Discuss attitudes, perceived benefits, challenges/barriers, the deterrent of using mobile devices of rural older adults.
  5. Discuss personal characteristics that influence the use of mobile devices by older adults.
  6. Future plans and reflections will be discussed.

Primary Presenter

Hyeonjean Yoo, Auburn University College of Education, Department of Adult Education
Work Title

Graduate student

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