Bridging generations: a scoping review of teaching technology to the elderly using intergenerational strategies

Abstract

The proportion of the global population aged 60 and above is projected to nearly double by 2050, emphasizing the urgent need for societies to adapt to the challenges posed by an aging population. As the elderly increasingly face difficulties in navigating digital technologies, which are essential for daily tasks and accessing services, the digital divide often leads to digital exclusion. This scoping review investigates intergenerational strategies used to teach technology to older adults. Seventeen studies from 11 countries were analyzed, highlighting six key intergenerational learning strategies: reverse mentoring, virtual learning, collaborative learning, family intergenerational activities, game play learning, and storytelling. These strategies offer diverse methods for enhancing digital literacy and social engagement, with reverse mentoring showing promise in fostering digital competence, and virtual learning promoting inclusivity across generations. However, barriers such as technological access, ongoing support, and cultural differences complicate implementation. This review underscores the importance of adapting instructional approaches to the needs of the elderly while leveraging intergenerational interactions to bridge the digital literacy gap. It calls for sustained efforts to address user needs, provide technical support, and ensure inclusivity, especially for isolated individuals, to maximize the effectiveness and sustainability of these strategies.