INCREASING AUTONOMY OF OLDER ADULTS THROUGH THE USE OF COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET

Abstract

This paper describes a research project that addresses the potential beneficial effects of newly acquired computer and Internet skills on the cognitive ability and quality of life in older individuals. This project is a randomized controlled study with healthy older participants between 65 and 75 years of age. In this paper, the design of this study, as well as some preliminary results on an everyday competence measure, the Technological Transfer Test (TTT), will be discussed. This test was designed to measure problem solving with respect to everyday technological devices, such as a cash machine. The ability to use such devices is very important for autonomy in later life, as society becomes more and more technology driven