Relationship Between Social Isolation and Technology Acceptance in Older Adults From Zahedan, South of Iran

Objectives Social isolation in old age leads to consequences such as depression, increased anxiety and death. Considering the increasing growth of technology, this study aims to examine the relationship between social isolation and acceptance of technology in older adults from Zahedan, south of Iran. Methods & Materials This is a descriptive-analytical study with a cross-sectional design that was conducted in 2023 on 400 older adults aged ≥65 years living in Zahedan City who were selected by a multi-stage sampling method. The Lubben social network scale-6 (LSNS-6) and Basakha and Mohaqeqi Kamal’s technology acceptance questionnaire were used to collect data. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 22 using Pearson’s correlation test, independent t-test, and analysis of variance. Results The social isolation rate was 66%, and the technology acceptance rate was 51%. There was a significant and negative relationship between social isolation and technology acceptance (r=-0.64, P<0.001). Social isolation rate was significantly different based on marital status and educational level (P<0.05) and but not significant based on age, gender, employment status and ethnicity (P>0.05). Technology acceptance rate was significantly different based on gender and educational level (P<0.05), but not significant based on age, marital status, employment status, and ethnicity (P>0.05). Age had no significant relationship with technology acceptance or social isolation (P>0.05). Conclusion The social isolation rate among older adults in Zahedan is high, and the technology acceptance rate is moderate. Considering the relationship between social isolation and technology acceptance, social networks can be used as a useful tool to maintain the social interactions of the elderly.