Inclusão digital na terceira idade: idosos vivenciando um novo paradigma tecnológico

Abstract

This final course paper presents an investigation entitled Digital Inclusion in Later Life: Older Adults Experiencing a New Technological Paradigm, which examines how the process of digital inclusion influences the achievement of autonomy and the exercise of active citizenship among older adults. According to Cobalchini et al. (2020), population aging poses challenges that affect society as a whole, making it necessary to develop actions that address the needs of older individuals. According to Lévy (2015), digital culture promotes the integration of different means of communication and information within the same technological environment, connecting people, institutions, and knowledge through digital networks. In this context, the internet has become a central space for communication, access to information, and social participation, consolidating what the author refers to as cyberculture. Understanding the place of older adults in digital society requires a perspective that goes beyond statistical data; it requires consideration of the historical, cultural, educational, and economic aspects that influence their relationship with new technologies. It is also important to recognize that the process of digital inclusion occurs in different ways, since each older adult has unique life experiences, opportunities, and trajectories. The study sought to problematize the impact of digital technologies on the lives of older adults and how they experience the process of digital inclusion in contemporary society, considering that a lack of skills related to digital culture may contribute to situations of social exclusion and hinder access to rights and essential services necessary for the exercise of active citizenship. Therefore, it is urgent to ensure that older adults have access to available new technologies in order to strengthen their social participation, independence, and protection within digital environments. A field study was conducted, approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Amazonas (UFAM) under protocol number 95201326.2.0000.5020, using a qualitative approach with older adult participants enrolled in courses offered by the Open University Foundation for Older Adults (FUNATI). The results showed that, although most participants had access to smartphones and possessed a secondary or higher level of education, they experienced difficulties in using applications, government platforms, and digital services. It was also found that digital inclusion contributes to strengthening autonomy, expanding access to information and public services, and promoting more active participation in society. It is concluded that education aimed at developing digital competencies is an essential element in reducing technological exclusion, promoting the exercise of citizenship, and fostering active, safe, and socially integrated aging.