BACKGROUND
Digital literacy is essential to be able to function effectively in society, and the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital inclusion for equity and positive aging experience; however, aging immigrants face greater challenges in using information and communication technologies compared to other older adults. Interventions are needed to reduce the digital divide among individuals of different ethnicities. To date no studies have explored digital literacy learning strategies for immigrant older adults.
OBJECTIVE
To report on digital literacy in immigrant older adults and strategies to increase their digital competence and engagement in a co-design group-based educational program.
METHODS
An exploratory study employing quantitative and qualitative data collection and co-designed digital learning sessions. Two organizations from the local ethnocultural community with older immigrants that spoke Arabic, Farsi and Kurdish were included in the study. To determine participant needs prior to the learning sessions, data was collected using semi-structured interviews and digital competency questionnaires: the 14-item brief version of the Senior Technology Acceptance Model (STAM) questionnaire and the short 16-question version of the Mobile Device Proficiency Questionnaire (MDPQ-16). Focus group interviews and observational notes were conducted throughout the learning sessions to capture participant acceptability and engagement.
RESULTS
Regarding digital competencies, participants expressed low confidence in various areas, including data and file storage, calendar use, privacy settings, troubleshooting, and software management. The co-design findings emphasize the instructor's dynamic responsibilities, the need to understand participants' learning attitudes and interests, the importance of incorporating peer support, as well as the identification of barriers and learning opportunities.
CONCLUSIONS
Digital literacy programs that are tailored to the specific needs of older adults, including step-by-step guidance, accessibility features, and positive peer role-modeling, can combat technology barriers and improve attitudes towards technology.