UCA Study: Digital Divide Shrinking Between Generations

Researchers at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway have completed a study showing the “digital divide” between younger and older generations is beginning to narrow.

The “digital divide” is a phrase used to describe the geographical or generation gaps between younger and older users of technology, such as smartphones and computers.

UCA Professors Mark McMurtrey, Ronald E. McGaughey, James P. Downey and Steven M. Zeltmann from the Department of Management Information Services issued their report, “Seniors and information technology: lessons from the field,” which highlights trends and demographic data about how usage of technology is becoming more commonplace among older users.

“While those in the upper age bracket (65 years and older) use a computer (and connect to the internet) least among all the divisions, by far the highest rates are again by their predecessors: those in the 45–64 years age group (US Census Bureau, 2005b; internet release date: June, 2009),” the report says.

“Marketers need to be prepared to capitalize on these opportunities when they avail themselves in the not too distant future. As will be shown next, they should be focusing their efforts now on our senior citizens,” it also states.

Jacob Kauffman with our content partner, KUAR-FM 89 News, reports in more detail on the study.

The study reveals some surprising truths about seniors. They have more money available for technological expenses, are already a significant online presence, and they use technology and the internet in comparable ways to younger generations.

As seniors continue to embrace the digital world technologies will begin to reflect its new users. McMurtrey says the growing presence of seniors online opens the door for hardware and software developers to create programs designed for the needs and interests of seniors.

Access Kauffman’s radio report at this link, which also includes access to the full UCA study.