Mobile devices are a double-edged sword for seniors
Smartphones, computers, and tablets have long been part of many grandparents’ lives. However, they are a double-edged sword when it comes to family relationships, as a survey by the University of Neuchâtel shows.
How are new communication technologies changing the relationship between senior citizens and their relatives? Antonio Iannaccone, Vittoria Cesari Lusso and Sophie Lambolez from the University of Neuchâtel investigated this question in a study. Their conclusion: the new technologies have advantages and disadvantages.
If there is a good relationship between grandparents and their relatives, the new mobile devices can bring the generations closer together. However, if the relationship was already unsatisfactory beforehand, the devices can fuel additional tensions and conflicts.
The purely qualitative study focused on people over 65 who had grandchildren aged 0 to 15 at the time of the study. It comprised interviews with 20 participants, in which the researchers asked them about their use of new communication technologies and how they were used in family relationships.
First hurdle
The first obstacle senior citizens face is choosing the device that best suits their needs. The respondents stated that they turn to their relatives for advice. "Grandparents like to ask their children or even their grandchildren for advice," said Sophie Lambolez, according to a statement from the University of Neuchâtel. Once they have the device, senior citizens admit that they like to get tips and help from their grandchildren if they have a computer glitch or are stuck.
While Skyping to maintain relationships with relatives abroad is generally seen as a positive thing, there are also cases where grandparents see the computer as a kind of competition.
Tablet as rival
One grandfather, for example, regretted that the tablet had become too important between him and his eight-year-old grandson. He could hardly tear the little one away from his screen to eat or play with him.
For some grandparents, the new technologies have also created needs that did not exist before. Almost all respondents also agreed that it takes a great deal of effort and a constant learning process to keep pace with developments.
Finally, the effects on health should not be neglected. Some senior citizens have noticed that the devices make them tired or cause headaches.
Communicate situationally
In summary, according to the study, the new technologies offer many helpful forms of communication, but they could also quickly turn into traps, as they change the hierarchies and competencies within the family. It is important to choose the right means of communication for the right situation, the scientists emphasize. The study was presented in Neuchâtel on Friday. (SDA)
