Digital Care for Older People: Digital Literacy, Technophobia and Technophilia

Abstract

Aim: To examine the role of digital literacy, technophobia, technophilia and trust in technology in cognitively healthy older adults and their implications for autonomy and well-being. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 334 older adults (≥70 years; 60% women) living independently in residential care facilities in Italy. Participants completed a paper-based questionnaire assessing demographics, smart device ownership, trust in technology, digital skills, and technophobia/technophilia. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, MANOVA, correlation and regression analyses. Findings: Digital literacy correlated positively with trust and negatively with technophobia. Men showed greater device ownership, enthusiasm for technology and creative digital skills. Technophobia emerged as a barrier to technology adoption, with potential implications for autonomy and access to health resources. Conclusions: Tailored digital literacy interventions can reduce technophobia, promote digital inclusion, and improve autonomy in older adults. Healthcare professionals should lead these initiatives to support healthy ageing in a digitalised world.