Qualitative Evaluation of an Intervention Program for Sustained Internet Use Among Low-Income Older Adults

The purpose of this study was to: explore low-income older adults’ perceptions of participating in an intervention program for sustained Internet use, identify factors affecting their Internet use, and provide recommendations for program improvement. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews of 11 public housing building residents who participated in a program that provided a computer/Internet skills training, public computer stations, free personal computers and broadband Internet services, and post-training assistance. Three major themes emerged through thematic analysis: impacts, barriers, and user needs and wants. The theme impacts indicated the positive changes that respondents experienced, including enhanced social connections, development of life skills, and monetary benefits from using the Internet (e.g., saving long distance call costs). The theme barriers included barriers to program participation and barriers to full, sustained Internet use. Distrust of governmental or social programs and fears of technology appeared to hinder program participation. Despite the comprehensiveness of the program, program participants still faced barriers at different phases. Limited proficiency, fears about cyber security, and broadband-related issues (e.g., technical and cost-related issues) may prevent full, sustained Internet use. The theme user needs and wants included individual device and technical support needs and preference for Wi-Fi for Internet access. Provision of individual devices (e.g., laptop computers) and ongoing technical support appeared to be crucial for sustained Internet use among low-income older adults. Providing a building-wide Wi-Fi system rather than individual modems in each residential unit might better meet user preferences and maintenance needs in multi-unit housing buildings. © 2015, Springer Science+Business Media New York.