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Engaging the disengaged: Examining the domestication of mobile telephony among older adults in Trans-Nzoia and Bungoma Counties in Western Kenya
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Date
2020-12
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Journal of Development and Communication Studies
Abstract
The world is growing older. Considering the increasing number of older adults, it is
imperative to consider how technology design can meet the needs and wants of these
important user groups. Mobile phones offer great potential in improving quality of life
for older adults in areas of, healthcare, independent living, communication and reduced
isolation. There have been numerous studies on technology design for older adults
(Fisk, Rogers, Charness, Czaja, & Sharit, 2004), but much of the work has focused on
indoor and stationary applications such as desktop computers (Zajicek & Brewster,
2004). Although older people need support beyond stationary situations inside and
outside their homes (Goodman, Brewster, & Gray, 2004), limited number of mobile
functions are used by older adults due to high cost associated with mobile phones (Lee:
2007). Conversely, Nimrod (2015), argues older people use mobile phones extensively
but little is known about relevant domestication processes involved and the extent to
which older adults adopt and use mobile phones. This study interviewed 40 older
retired civil servants aged 60 years and above in Western Kenya. Using domestication
theory, this study examined the appropriation (Possession and ownership),
Objectification (meaning and symbols), incorporation of mobile phones in older
people’s everyday life and conversion (unintended uses) process of the domestication
of mobile technology by the said group. Findings showed that mobile phones both
enhanced closeness with their children and isolated them from them too. Majority felt
mobile phones had become their ‘extended family members’ bringing the news of the
world to them via mobile phone calls and texts. However, the small font size of texts
and the fact that phones were getting smaller in size made it difficult to use. Their
favourite mobile phone application was the mobile money locally dubbed M-pesa as they
could now receive cash transfers from the government.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Older adults, M-pesa, Isolation, Connection, E- inclusion, Domestication, Kenya
Citation
Komen, Leah Jerop. (2020). Engaging the disengaged: Examining the domestication of mobile telephony among older adults in Trans-Nzoia and Bungoma Counties in Western Kenya. Journal of Development and Communication Studies. 7(1&2). https://doi.org/10.4314/jdcs.v7i1-2.2