Older adults and the emerging digital service delivery: A mixed methods study on Informations and Communications Technology use, skills and attitudes

Based on data from a survey (n = 3291) and 14 qualitative interviews among Danish older adults, this study investigated the use of, and attitudes towards, Information Communications Technology (ICT) and the digital delivery of public services. While age, gender, and socio-economic status were associated with use of ICT, these determinants lost their explanatory power when we controlled for attitudes and experiences. We identified three segments that differed in their use of ICT and attitudes towards digital service delivery. As non-use of ICT often results from the lack of willingness to use it rather than from material or cognitive deficiencies, policy measures for bridging the digital divide should focus on skills and confidence rather than on access or ability.