ABSTRACT
The quality of life of older adults can be affected by the extent to which face-to-face (FTF) interactions are replaced by digitally mediated ones, specifically social media platforms (SMPs). On the one hand, if SMPs fulfil the same functions as FTF interactions and the user perceives greater utility with the former, a displacement effect is likely to occur, given the restrictions (monetary and available time) faced by the individual. On the other hand, if their functions are different, depending on the utility it generates for the user, both could be used independently or even become complementary.
The characterisation of older adults as reluctant to adopt new technologies is one of the stereotypes associated with this population. This stereotype is based on ageism and is exacerbated in Latin America, where internet penetration, in general, and adoption by older adults, in particular, are even lower in comparison to Europe or North America. Our study finds that FTF interactions are complementary to SMP use in six Latin American countries. Our quantitative study focuses on a subsample of 1408 informants over 60 years of age.
