ABSTRACT
This chapter describes technology, technology use, and factors that shape the adoption and use of technology, with a special emphasis on technology adoption and use by older adults. The use of the term “technology” has in many contexts become synonymous with information and communications technology (ICT), a broad term that typically refers to systems or devices that are often reliant on microprocessor chips used to process, display, and communicate information. ICT can also refer to satellites, servers, internet protocols, radio, television, and various software platforms and applications. Models of technology use and adoption are useful for several reasons. First, models of technology use and adoption aid in prediction. Second, by identifying facilitators and barriers to technology use and adoption, models can guide the design of devices and interventions to support technology use. When considering technology use and adoption and their relationships with age, remember that chronological age is confounded by cohort.
