Ctrl + Alt + Confused: Two-Thirds of Seniors Struggle to Keep Up With Tech

A recent study by HelpAge India has brought to light a significant digital divide affecting the elderly population in India. It turns out that nearly two-thirds of senior citizens—around 66%—find modern technology quite perplexing. The survey, which spanned 10 metro and non-metro cities, also revealed that more than half (51%) of seniors are anxious about making mistakes while using digital devices, underscoring a widespread fear of embracing technology.

 

Key Highlights:

 

•⁠  ⁠66% of Indian seniors struggle with technology, and 51% are concerned about making errors.

•⁠  ⁠Young people often step in as digital mentors, yet the gap in skills and confidence remains.

•⁠  ⁠Challenges include complicated interfaces, daunting jargon, and worries about privacy and security.

 

Despite these hurdles, initiatives like digital skills training and tablet loan programs are making strides in closing the gap, enhancing confidence and promoting digital inclusion.

 

Outlook:

As India’s elderly population continues to grow, addressing the digital divide becomes increasingly vital. Experts advocate for user-friendly technology design, ongoing digital literacy initiatives, and intergenerational support to empower seniors, ensuring that no one gets left behind in this digital era.

 

Source: HelpAge India, Business Standard