abstract
Introduction:
The evolution of information technologies has become part of our daily life and directly or indirectly affects the elderly population. The presence of these technologies, such as mobile phones, smartphones, computers, and tablets, at home where elderly persons live with their families demonstrates the necessity of including the elderly population in the technological universe.
Objective:
The aim of the present study was to describe the benefits obtained by the elderly from using such Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), the effect of such use on their Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and which physio-gerontological contributions resulted in the best use of the ICTs.
Method:
A convenience sample (n=30) was performed of individuals aged over 60 years who were students at the Instituto Henrique da Silva Semente (IHESS). Demographic and social data, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) were considered. The data was collected between April and May 2014.
Results:
The average age was 67.9 years with a predominance of women (76.7%). Among the respondents 83.3% used a computer at home; 66.6% had some kind of difficulty in using computers; and 86.6% used ICTs in their daily lives. Despite the difficulties in using the devices resulting from the limitations imposed by age, it was observed that the equality of the age range encouraged interaction with friends and family, and as a result 100% of respondents displayed excellent interpersonal relationships with the class group. It was also observed that the elderly persons had a great desire to learn and interact through the use of technological devices, and that females were involved in recreational and educational activities, with wives encouraging their husbands to attend the computer class. However, there were exemplary risks of the misuse of these devices, such as poor posture when handling electronic devices or spending long spells in unsuitable positions, demonstrating the need for physical therapy and geriatric guidelines to ensure the well-being of the elderly.
Conclusion:
The inclusion of elderly persons in the IHESS or in any other educational activity should consider the familiar environment in which they live as well as providing professional support in physiotherapeutic and gerontologic areas in order to assure well-being and quality of life, especially at this stage of life, senescence.
Key words:
Elderly; Aging; Digital Inclusion; Cognition; New Technologies