Older people's competence to use mobile phones: An exploratory study in a South African context

The aging population, as well as the level of mobile phone penetration in Africa and Sub-Saharan countries, are increasing significantly. This study explored older people's competence to use mobile phones in the Tlokwe municipal area, Potchefstroom, South Africa. The study, which formed a part of a bigger study (iGNiTe), included a total of 48 respondents aged 60+ years who took part in semi-structured qualitative interviews and the visual Mmogo-method®. The findings indicate that older people's level of mobile phone use competence varies due to the complexities of mobile phone features that prevent a number of them from using their mobile phones. Lack of knowledge and skills to use mobile phones also contributed to them not benefiting from the use of mobile phones. Overlooking intervention techniques that promote older people's competence to use mobile phones prevent them from maintaining their autonomy and independence longer and subsequently affects their quality of life.