Benefits and Barriers of the use of technology in older people: the ethical importance of the digital divide

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29057/mbr.v8i15.17721

Keywords:

older adult, technology, cell phone

Abstract

Currently, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are present in daily life, in most contexts where older adults operate. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the barriers and benefits of technology use among older adults attending the Institute for Older Adults in Hidalgo during June 2025. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and descriptive study was conducted with a non-probability sample of nine older adults, who were interviewed and surveyed about their technology use. The analysis of the results, using percentage frequencies, shows that the most frequently used devices are mobile phones and smart TVs; the main barrier being the lack of training in the use of technological devices. Therefore, the relevance of ICT use and the need for digital literacy training focused on older adults are emphasized.

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Author Biographies

Betha Maribel Pimentel Pérez, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Área Académica de Gerontología. Docente-Investigadora

Hedy Yunuem García Rocha, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Academic Area of ​​Gerontology, student.

María del Refugio Acuña Gurrola, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Academic Area of ​​Gerontology, Teacher-Researcher.

Lydia López Pontigo, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo

Academic Area of ​​Gerontology, Teacher-Researcher

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Published

2026-07-05

How to Cite

Pimentel Pérez, B. M., García Rocha, H. Y., Acuña Gurrola, M. del R., & López Pontigo, L. (2026). Benefits and Barriers of the use of technology in older people: the ethical importance of the digital divide. Mexican Bioethics Review ICSA, 8(15), 23–28. https://doi.org/10.29057/mbr.v8i15.17721

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