Abstract
As digital technologies become increasingly central to social participation, healthcare access, and civic engagement, the digital exclusion of elderly populations raises important questions about social equality. This article examines digital literacy challenges and learning opportunities among adults aged 65 and over in Czech Republic and Slovakia, drawing on both survey data and qualitative interviews to understand the barriers to and motivations for digital engagement among older adults.
Key Findings
The research identifies multiple interconnected barriers to digital literacy, including cognitive and physical limitations, economic constraints, and attitudinal factors such as technophobia and perceived irrelevance. However, the study also reveals strong motivations for digital engagement, particularly the desire to maintain social connections with family members, access health information, and participate in community activities. Peer-led learning programmes were found to be particularly effective in addressing both skill gaps and motivational barriers.
Methodology
A mixed-methods design combines survey data from 520 participants with 40 in-depth interviews and observation of 8 digital literacy programmes across urban and rural settings in both countries.
Implications
The findings argue for age-sensitive digital inclusion policies that address not only skill development but also the social and psychological dimensions of technology adoption among elderly populations.
