"It’s not at all the same as being in the same room, being in the same space": Older adult technology use and activity place modification during COVID-19 lockdown

Abstract

1 This study investigates how information and communication technology (ICT) facilitated older adults’ home modification to encompass pre-pandemic activities, as well as the health implications of this transition. Using a sample of 24 adults (65+) who lived in the Toronto area during the first summer of the pandemic (May 2020–August 2020), we conduct a qualitative thematic analysis of interviews about daily life, health, and ICT use. We employ difference of means and proportions tests using De Jong Gierveld 6-item loneliness scores to contextualize qualitative findings. We identified four qualitative themes encompassing a sense of loss of in-person socializing, ICT use to adapt routines and socializing to the home, and impacts on mental and physical health. Older adults adapted their homes into an activity place, although ICT was not key to this transition for everyone. Longing for third places suggests spatial agency is important for emotional well-being.