ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses practices of media use in sheltered homes for older people in order to question these technology-centric perspectives with their focus on the transformative properties of new Information and Communication Technology (ICT)s. Using observational methods and qualitative interviews, the study examined whether and how Internet access was introduced into the life and everyday practices of residents, and how residents and staff felt about the idea of accessing welfare information and health care support services online. The attitudes of respondents tended to be more consistent in their discussions about electronic service delivery. The fact that it is the older pensioners whose family and social networks are using the Internet who are themselves are more likely to become interested in going online indicates possible inequalities in opportunities to access. To conclude, homogenising categorisations of older people can deny individuals the attention and policy provision that could benefit them.
