Competences of older people to use smartphones as a factor of wellbeing in contemporary society

Mykolas Romeris University, Educational Science and Social Work Institute, Vilnius, Lithuania

Abstract

One of the key reflective aspects of modern society is the application of information communication technologies. According to SEB Bank and the information and communication technology company TEO [1] more people aged 65 and over are discovering the Internet and smart technology services to manage finances, communicate and spend their leisure time. Technological development has a large group of supporters even among seniors; however, many older adults have no skills and neither the intention nor the possibility to use digital devices which are critical for successful functioning in society. Escape from technological innovations in no way makes life easier. Modern smartphones can make life more enjoyable for seniors and to benefit society. The aim of this paper is to investigate seniors' opinions about the importance of increasing competence in smartphone usage in their daily lives. The investigation was conducted in two stages: 2018 April and 2018 September/October. During stage two, groups were former of 10–12 seniors. During and after the training, the participants were interviewed in focus groups about their opinions. The study revealed that older people's interest in new technologies activates their participation in the learning process, promotes interest in innovations and creates conditions for wellbeing in society.