Portuguese older people and the Internet: Interaction, uses, motivations, and obstacles

Roberto Martinez-Pecino; Alice Delerue Matos; Patricia Silva

doi:10.1515/commun-2013-0020

Article

Portuguese older people and the Internet: Interaction, uses, motivations, and obstacles

Roberto Martinez-Pecino , Alice Delerue Matos and Patricia Silva

Published/Copyright: October 29, 2013

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From the journal Communications Volume 38 Issue 4

Abstract

This study analyzes Portuguese seniors’ Internet activity and determine their reasons, benefits, and motivations for web use as well as the obstacles faced by non-users. Results were derived from a questionnaire completed by 189 seniors enrolled in universities for seniors. 68.1% defined themselves as Internet users. The seniors asked principally go online to check e-mail and gather information. They state that the Internet is useful, helps them to stay up-to-date, and to preserve (but not expand) relationships. Non-user status is not attributed to old age or health reasons. According to the technology acceptance model, ease of use and perception of utility were related to both Internet use and its intensity of use. Family influence also played a key role. Gender differences were not found in Internet use, intensity of use, or in use motivations.

Keywords: Internet; seniors; technology acceptance model; technology; active aging; social inclusion

Published Online: 2013-10-29

Published in Print: 2013-10-28

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Articles in the same Issue

https://doi.org/10.1515/commun-2013-0020

Keywords for this article

Internet; seniors; technology acceptance model; technology; active aging; social inclusion