Successful Aging and Technology Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Self-isolated Older Adults During a Global Pandemic : A Qualitative Study

Engineering notes

Key topics: autonomous driving, perception. See the paper for implementation details and experimental results.

Chinese explanation / 中文解读

中文解读待补充：本站会优先为端到端自动驾驶、BEV感知、3D目标检测、轨迹预测、路径规划、LiDAR感知等高价值论文补充中文说明。

Original abstract

Background: The onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic escalated the demand for digital technologies that could help older adults, particularly those in self-isolation, maintain connections with family, friends, and care providers. Aim: This study explored how self-isolation during the pandemic influenced older adults’ experiences of successful aging, with a specific focus on their adoption and acceptance of technology. Methods: A qualitative approach was employed using a secondary dataset of semi-structured interviews with ten older adults. Each participant was interviewed twice: once prior to the pandemic and again during it. Thematic analysis was conducted following Braun and Clarke’s (2006) six-phase framework to identify, analyse, and interpret patterns within the data. Results: Four major themes and twelve subthemes emerged from the data: (1) personal beliefs and perceptions of aging, (2) connection to self and others, (3) new awareness of technology, and (4) progression of digital literacy. These themes highlighted the multifaceted ways in which older adults adapted to and engaged with technology during the pandemic. Discussion: The findings emphasize the pivotal role that knowledge, attitudes, and practices play in shaping older adults’ engagement with technology. As digital tools became increasingly vital for maintaining social connections, accessing healthcare, and managing everyday tasks, those with greater familiarity and confidence in using communication and health-monitoring technologies were more likely to recognize and embrace their benefits. Perceived usefulness emerged as a key factor in adoption; individuals who held a positive outlook were more inclined to explore and integrate technology into their lives. The pandemic served as a powerful catalyst for digital engagement, prompting many older adults to shift their perspective, viewing technology not as an obstacle but as a valuable resource for sustaining independence, well-being, and social participation. A proactive mindset and openness to learning proved to be critical enablers of successful adaptation during this period of rapid change. Conclusions: The pandemic accelerated the digital transformation among older adults, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges of technology use in later life. While preexisting digital divides became more apparent, many older adults overcame barriers such as fear, inexperience, and limited support to adopt digital tools out of necessity. These findings point to the importance of designing accessible technologies, offering targeted training, and creating real-time learning opportunities. Furthermore, they emphasize the need to address internalized ageism and reshape societal narratives to promote digital equity and empower older adults in an increasingly connected world.

Links and sources

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