Efficacy of a digital education program on Life Satisfaction and digital self efficacy in older adults: A mixed method study

Abstract. People aged 65 and over often have difficulties in interacting with ICTs, even though these technologies are considered to be essential in ageing healthily, as they allow people to maintain their communicative and cognitive abilities and their social relationships even when the former biologically decline and the latter are difficult to keep up as mobility slowly becomes more challenging. This research aims to explore the efficacy of a 6 class Digital Education program in improving digital self efficacy (tablet use) and life satisfaction in people aged 65 and over, using a quali-quantitative longitudinal design (measurements taken after the first class – T1 - and after the last one –T2). Quantitative phase sample consists in 130 65 y.o. and over participants, ethnographical sample is a 10 person class, all attending a digital education program. Results show improved levels of digital self efficacy but not significant difference in life satisfaction after the course.