The Relationship Between Technology Anxiety and ICT Adoption

Abstract

Technology anxiety inhibits seniors' ICT adoption, spotlighting the hurdles deterring older individuals from embracing digital tools. The investigation aims to find strategies easing this anxiety, facilitating greater ICT adoption, enhancing digital inclusivity, and resource access for seniors. Understanding this topic is crucial in empowering seniors to leverage technology for communication, information, and services amid a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Technology anxiety, the independent variable, embodies the emotional and cognitive concerns seniors face when engaging with technology. ICT adoption, the dependent variable, measures the extent to which seniors integrate digital tools into their daily lives. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework aids in grasping factors influencing seniors' technology adoption decisions. Insights from data collected from 158 senior residents at Apartment Harmoni, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, unveil a correlation between personalized support and reduced technology anxiety, leading to heightened ICT adoption rates among seniors.