Barriers and Facilitators to Technology Among Older Adults During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review Using Thematic Analysis

Abstract

World Health Organization and local governments recommended that older adults self-isolate due to the elevated risk for adverse health outcomes faced when contracting COVD-19. Technology offers better access to virtual communications for social connections and healthcare. Yet, the barriers and facilitators of older adults’ use of technology during this world-changing event are, for the most part, unknown. The purpose of this paper is to synthesize using inductive thematic analysis the literature on broader health and social impacts on older adults from lockdown-related measures caused by the pandemic. The findings consisted of three dichotomous themes regarding older adults’ barriers and facilitators to technology. The first theme centers on personal belief and perception of oneself. The second theme explores the digital literacy continuum. The third theme focuses on older adults’ barriers and facilitators when adopting technology. The practical significance of these findings is to better inform the design and delivery of accessible technology to older adults.