Digital inequality experiences of elderly people: A qualitative analysis in the context of anti discrimination social work

Social changes experienced during the digitalization process have caused age discrimination to deepen in the context of the use of technological products. In the literature, this situation is defined as digital inequality. This research focuses on usage inequality, defined as second-level digital inequality. In this research, elderly individuals' experiences of digital inequality are discussed from the perspective of anti-discrimination social work. The aim is to reveal the digital inequality and discrimination experiences of elderly individuals and to offer solutions to these problems from the perspective of anti-discrimination social work. The subjects of the research are elderly individuals over the age of 60 who live alone. In this study designed with a qualitative research design, the subjects were reached by purposeful sampling method. In this context, data was obtained through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 20 subjects residing in Ankara. The data obtained was analyzed thematically with the MAXQDA 2020 program. Findings of the research are presented under these themes titled; "Thoughts on the Relationship of Aging with Technology", "Experiences of Digital Inequality and Discrimination" and "Thoughts on the Development of Digital Skills". Based on the findings of the digital inequality experiences, it was concluded that the results were shaped within the framework of categories such as exposure to negative discourses containing discrimination, forgetfulness, fear of encountering dangerous situations and being harmed, upbringing style and security needs. In addition, it has been observed that the opinions about the development of digital skills and capabilities are positive and older individuals are willing to receive digital literacy training. As a result of the research, suggestions have been developed to help elderly individuals continue their socialization and ensure democratic participation through educational activities designed to meet different needs and to close the digital divide.