Ageing in a Digital World: Understanding Technological Care Needs among Older Adults in Kolkata, India

Madhubrota Chatterjee, Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bengaluru
Syamala T S

The shift in India's demographic transition towards an ageing population presents growing challenges in their care needs, particularly for older adults living without their children due to changes in the socio-demographic context. Technological needs are crucial for these people to maintain independence, emotional connectivity, and quality of life. This study explores the technological care needs of older adults aged 60 and above living alone or with their spouses in Kolkata, focusing on their requirements, usage patterns, and barriers to technology adoption. Drawing data from 103 semi-structured household interviews, preliminary findings suggest significant unmet technological needs, including health monitoring devices, communication tools, poor vision, personal needs, and safety technologies. Despite recognizing the benefits, they often face fears related to data security and the complexity of devices. Moreover, a strong preference for human interaction over technology persists. This research highlights that assistance from family or caregivers is crucial, along with the importance of developing user-friendly technologies and supporting awareness initiatives. Addressing these gaps can enhance the quality of life and well-being for older adults in urban India, offering critical insights for policymakers and developers.

Keywords: Population Ageing, Older Adults and Intergenerational Relations, Qualitative data/methods/approaches, Population and Development

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