Barriers to digital inclusion: the impact of educational level, help-related needs, and internet usage difficulties among people aged 65 to 75 with visual impairment in Sweden.

AbstractPurposeMaterial and methodsResultsConclusion\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe digital transformation has led to an increased reliance on the internet. To what extent visual impairment affects people’s opportunities for digital inclusion remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Disability & Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology pp. 1 - 12
Autores principales: Söderberg, Tove, Gustafsson, Susanne, Andersson Hammar, Isabelle
Formato: Journal Article
Publicado: Taylor & Francis Ltd May2026
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:AbstractPurposeMaterial and methodsResultsConclusion\nIMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThe digital transformation has led to an increased reliance on the internet. To what extent visual impairment affects people’s opportunities for digital inclusion remains insufficiently understood. This study aimed to explore (1) the use of the internet, (2) potential adaptations required for its use, and (3) potential factors explaining digital exclusion among people aged 65 to 75 years with visual impairments.An exploratory, cross-sectional design using self-reported data from a survey with people aged 65 to 75 years with visual impairment registered at vision clinics in a larger Swedish region. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse participants’ characteristics. Binary logistic regression was performed to explore digital exclusion and explanatory factors.Of the 413 participants, 67% needed support in digital activity arenas, including additional training in internet services, and adaptations/aids. Digital exclusion could partly be explained by low education (OR = 2.28, <italic>p</italic> = 0.016), help-related needs (OR = 1.95, <italic>p</italic> = 0.044), and internet usage difficulties (OR = 11.48, <italic>p</italic> = 0.001).Living with a visual impairment when being 65 years and older may lead to digital exclusion. Those requiring help when using the internet, those who found it difficult to use the internet, and those with the lowest levels of education were the most at risk of digital exclusion.To prevent digital exclusion, people with a visual impairment need enhanced or newly acquired digital skills. While aids and strategies are important, greater emphasis on training, repetition, and tailored information based on people’s experience and knowledge are essential.To prevent digital exclusion, people with a visual impairment need enhanced or newly acquired digital skills. While aids and strategies are important, greater emphasis on training, repetition, and tailored information based on people’s experience and knowledge are essential.