Technostress As an Obstacle to Dignified Aging in the Digital Age

Numerous studies have demonstrated an overall positive association between Information and Communication Technology (ICT) use and Subjective Well-being (SWB) in later life. Without detracting from the value of previous research, it should be noted that most studies on ICT use and SWB in older adulthood focused on positive impacts, typically neglecting adverse effects. By concentrating on technostress (“a modern disease of adaptation caused by an inability to cope with new computer technologies in a healthy manner” [Brod, 1984, p. 16]), which was highly documented in research on younger users, this presentation aims at illuminating a potential risk factor associated with technology use in old age. Based on the findings from three studies conducted in six countries, four topics will be reviewed: 1) the technology-induced stimuli that induce technostress in older age, 2) the background characteristics associated with higher levels of technostress in later life, 3) the association between technostress and older adults’ SWB in varying circumstances, and 4) the global nature of technostress as an adaptation challenge in old age. Following this review, it will be argued that technostress is critical in explaining third-level digital divides (i.e., disparities in benefits gained from ICT use) and should be considered a threat to well-being in older adulthood. Moreover, as the population most affected by technostress in all circumstances and all countries is that of the frailer older adults (i.e., older, less healthy, less educated, with lower income), it will be claimed that technostress is a factor increasing social disparities within the older population. Accordingly, technostress endangers frailer older people’s enjoyment of the human right to dignified aging, autonomy, and overall thriving by making them feel inadequate to live in dignity in an increasingly digital world.