‘Technostress’: why many older people feel shut out by the digital world
VioNettaStock/Getty Images From personal health portals to AI assistants that draft emails, the digital age has simplified endless everyday tasks. But for many older New Zealanders, the rapid march of technology has helped build a wall rather than open doors. Navigating online forms, changing apps, disappearing face-to-face services and the constant threat of scams can be daunting. There is a term for this unease: technostress . Once used to describe the anxiety and frustrati
A growing number of older adults are experiencing 'technostress,' a form of anxiety triggered by the rapid shift toward digital-only services. While technology can offer independence and connection, many individuals over 60 report feeling alienated by complex online interfaces, frequent software updates, and the removal of traditional face-to-face assistance. Research indicates that nearly half of those over 50 feel left behind by these advancements, with a significant portion facing barriers when trying to access essential government information. Furthermore, the constant threat of financial scams creates a climate of fear that discourages some seniors from engaging with digital platforms entirely. Ultimately, the digital divide poses a serious risk to the long-term well-being of the elderly population, as those who cannot navigate these systems effectively may face social isolation and reduced access to critical resources.
As public services increasingly move online, addressing the digital exclusion of older generations is vital to ensuring equitable access to healthcare, government support, and social connection.
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