Abstract
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 global pandemic has demanded many individuals remain indoors and isolate from friends and family to keep safe. These long periods of isolation have led to loneliness and an overall shift in the way individuals communicate with each other. Digital media sources have become predominant forms of interaction and entertainment –but how are different age groups, specifically older adults managing this major digital media shift? OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this research is to identify digital literacy rates, uptake, and comfort levels within different demographic groups of the older adult population during a global pandemic. METHODS: The study was done using a survey designed using Google Forms. Digital copies (pdf files) of the survey were also emailed and hard copies were mailed in or filled in at local pharmacies with physical distancing measures in place. The survey took about five minutes to complete and consisted of demographic-based, knowledge-based and overall satisfaction-based questions. RESULTS: A total of sixty-five individuals completed the survey. The results of the survey were analyzed by conducting Chi-square tests using Microsoft Excel and RealStatistics. Six chi-square tests were conducted and analyzed. Three of the six chi-square tests resulted in statistically significant results where p<0.05. The three chi-square tests which resulted in statistically significant results were the associations between gender and level of comfort with technology (p=0.02), using a smart phone and level of comfort with technology (p=0.09), and level of education and level of comfort with technology (p=0.019). CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results, there are different variables which make older adults more or less comfortable with technology use. Findings from this research will help incorporate techniques to educate and implement strategies to promote the use of digital media sources within the older adult population, especially in times of need such as during a global pandemic.