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Building social inclusion for rural older people using information and communication technologies : Perspectives of rural practitioners
Warburton, Jeni Cowan, Sue Winterton, Rachel Hodgkins, Suzanne
Warburton, Jeni
Cowan, Sue
Winterton, Rachel
Hodgkins, Suzanne
Abstract
The literature identifies rural, older people as at risk of social exclusion, as a result of rural disadvantage. In this context, improved access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) has potential to build social inclusion, yet current evidence shows that rural, older people are the lowest current users of technology. This paper draws on the practice and local knowledge of rural practitioners from one Victorian region in order to explore: (a) the practice issues associated with ICT use among rural, older people; and (b) the characteristics of effective practice models in the rural, social work context. An analysis of findings highlights the need to respond to the diverse skills, needs, and learning styles of older people, to demonstrate the benefits of ICTs, involve users, and build confidence. Major barriers include poor ICT usage by many rural agencies and low practitioner capacity, as well as access and resources.
Keywords
older people, rural, Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), social inclusion, social work practice, practice innovations
Date
2014
Type
Journal article
Journal
Australian Social Work
Book
Volume
67
Issue
4
Page Range
479-494
Article Number
ACU Department
School of Allied Health
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Source URL
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled