New Media and Changing Social Relationships
摘要
The invention of the computer and the internet has indeed made possibilities for the overall well-being of the aged people. This chapter investigates how new media have become an important gateway for reducing isolation, loneliness, and other depressive symptoms from the experiences shared by elderly respondents. Online domain among the aged people is considered as an achievement space where the elderly could show proven abilities in dealing with technology. If given some prior training, they can use it for sharing information and browsing for information, besides socialization and reconnection through the social networking communities and groups. It further explores how, despite limitations, the acceptance of new media tools is a boon for older adults through their experience of overcoming the barriers of digital literacy.