Intergenerational Methods to Promote Digital Application Usage among Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Abstract

The increase in the aging population highlights the importance of digital literacy for improving the quality of life of older adults. Despite their interest in incorporating digital technology into their daily lives, numerous studies have shown that older adults often struggle with its use due to a lack of learning interest, poor memory retention, and improper instruction. To address these challenges, a scoping review was conducted, drawing from 14 eligible articles sourced from Web of Science and Scopus. The review aimed to identify recent intergenerational methods that effectively facilitate the adoption of digital applications among older adults. The findings were categorized into five intergenerational methods: collaborative, virtual meeting, co-activity, family intergenerational learning, and reverse mentoring. Within these categories, the study identified key elements crucial for the success of technology-based intergenerational programs, including creating clear objectives and goals, developing comprehensive planning and structure, demonstrating effective recruitment, providing training and support, offering facilitation, ensuring flexibility and adaptability in content, and conducting thorough evaluation and feedback. By exploring these elements, this paper provides valuable insights for researchers seeking to develop and understand how technology-based intergenerational programs are conducted.