“Getting turned on”: How technology training can promote the social connectedness and engagement in life of older adults

Rationale: Preserving and improving the health and well-being of older people is a significant public health issue of the 21st century. “Engagement in life” has been identified as a key predictor of healthy aging, and health promoters, programmers, policy makers and community groups are seeking ways to enhance engagement in life for the older adults they serve. Lack of technological literacy among older adults has been identified as a potential barrier to engagement in life – i.e., that without the skills and knowledge to effectively use computers and access the internet, it is becoming impossible to negotiate the myriad of resources and information required (and available) to be fully engaged members of society. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess how participation in a senior's technology training program impacts the health (engagement in life) of older New Yorkers. Methods: The study employed a mixed-method design. Quantitative data were collected using telephone surveys (pre and post training) and analyzed using SPSS software. Qualitative data (observations and narratives) were collected using a case study approach and analyzed using NVivo software and principles of grounded theory. Engagement in life was measured by assessing changes in a) social support networks and b) social participation (eg., did participants report the technology training supported them to find and/or participate in new social events and activities). Results: Findings demonstrate technology training programs can promote engagement in life for community-dwelling older adults by increasing social connectedness and improving opportunities for social and civic engagement.