This paper reports findings from one strand of an extensive research project investigating digital engagement of older people and the risks to sustained usage of information and
communication technologies (ICTs). The factors that motivate older people to learn about ICTs, the barriers they face in the learning process and with on-going ICT
use are examined. Research methods included focus groups (28 ICT learners aged 50+); questionnaires and interviews
with seven 50+ learners; three interviews with ICT tutors; and observation sessions in three different ICT learning and support environments in England and Scotland. Findings show that while learning to use ICTs to ease the mechanics of daily life (e.g. on-line shopping) was a motivating factor for some, the more powerful drivers tended to be those applications seen as enriching quality of life e.g.
using ICTs to keeping in contact with family and friends and
using ICTs in pursuit of passions and interests. The key
barriers relate to fear of using a computer; learning suppo
rt ; quality and provision of ICT training; cost of training
and technology; memory problems, and technology barriers. Implications of these findings for service providers, ICT designers and policy makers are identified and discussed
