Loneliness and Social Isolation of the Elderly: A Digital Transformation Intervention

In contemporary times the issue of elderly care has become a pressing concern, with many elderly individuals finding themselves separated from their families. The World Health Organization reported that 1 in 4 older people experience loneliness and social isolation. Studies have found that this has serious consequences on the elderly’s physical and mental health and longevity of life. Hence there is a need to find a solution to reduce the effect of loneliness and social isolation on the elderly population. This paper focuses on the importance of technology, particularly social media platforms in this era of digital transformation in mitigating the challenges faced by the aging generation who found themselves separated from their families. It addresses the impact of technology on vulnerable groups of society, particularly the elderly. The discourse is hinged on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Social Cognitive Theory, and Diffusion of Innovations Theory. The paper underscores the importance of addressing digital literacy and the perceived usefulness of technology among the elderly. This paper recommends the use of social media for elderly connectivity and incorporating digital literacy initiatives. It advocates for a proactive approach to harnessing the potential of social media to enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals. This is by recognizing the transformative power of technology and promoting digital inclusion initiatives, stakeholders can ensure that aging populations remain actively engaged, connected, and valued in an increasingly digitalized world.