Investigating factors that affect older adults' technology acceptance in Singapore context based on STAM

Abstract

Purpose: This research seeks to explore how older adults in Singapore embrace technology, scrutinizing the elements linked to their acceptance of it. By utilizing the Senior Technology Acceptance Model (STAM), the study strives to comprehend and tackle the distinct obstacles they encounter in this digital era. The ultimate goal is to encourage their continual engagement in our progressively digital world.

Participants and Methods: In total, 128 older adults aged 55 years and above, who lived in various areas in Singapore participated in this study. They were asked to fill in a survey questionnaire that covered demographics, STAM-related constructs and health and ability characteristics.

Results: The study found that participants demonstrated a fair degree of openness towards technology. Factors that significantly influenced their acceptance of technology included earning a monthly income of SGD 2000 or more, technology self-efficacy, psychological condition (including attitudes towards aging and satisfaction with life), and perceived risk of identity theft.

Conclusion: As Singapore continues to evolve into a technologically sophisticated society, the scope of research on technology use among the elderly should extend beyond just healthcare or information and communication technology, considering the varied characteristics of this population group. Based on the study’s findings, a number of strategies were proposed to enhance the acceptance of technology among Singapore’s older adults.