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Media Literacy of Older Adults: Challenges for Social and Digital Inclusion of the Twenty-First Century in Loja-Ecuador

In: Health Technologies and Demographic Challenges

Author

Listed:
  • Bethy-Esther Freire-Elizalde

    (National University of Loja)

  • Marcelo León Castro

    (Ecotec University)

  • Erika Lucía González-Carrión

    (National University of Loja)

  • Alejandro Villegas-Muro

    (Universidad Estatal Peninsula de Santa Elena
    Autonomous University of Chihuahua)

Abstract

Today, the skills to navigate and understand the media are important, as the media world is increasingly dominated by digitalization. The main objective of the study was to determine the level of media skills of older adults from the International United Pentecostal Church of Ecuador (IPUIE) in Loja. Methodologically, a qualitative approach was adopted, using observation sheets and interviews as data collection techniques. Media skills levels were assessed through observation of 45 randomly and conveniently selected older adults. The findings revealed a significant digital divide due to a lack of technological knowledge and socioeconomic barriers, limiting some older adults’ access to mobile devices. Most older adults face challenges in navigating the digital environment, and it was concluded that the lack of skills in media management and fear of technology are elements that restrict the active participation of the elderly in the digital society.

Suggested Citation

  • Bethy-Esther Freire-Elizalde & Marcelo León Castro & Erika Lucía González-Carrión & Alejandro Villegas-Muro, 2025. "Media Literacy of Older Adults: Challenges for Social and Digital Inclusion of the Twenty-First Century in Loja-Ecuador," Springer Proceedings in Business and Economics, in: Pedro Miguel Gaspar & Juan Manuel Cueva Lovelle & Carlos Mentenegro-Marín & Teresa Guarda (ed.), Health Technologies and Demographic Challenges, pages 335-341, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:prbchp:978-3-031-94901-2_27
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-94901-2_27
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