Digital Aging
This SSHRC-funded project investigated the ways in which 2SLGBTQ+ adults aged 50+ living in Atlantic Canada developed and maintained friendships, relationships, and community. We focused on how online technologies such as social media platforms and dating sites/apps and the COVID-19 pandemic helped and/or hindered older 2SLGBTQ+ adults’ sociosexual interactions.
Methods:
Scoping review of the literature
4 focus groups with older 2SLGBTQ+ adults (n=23) in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic provinces
Health equity promotion model & thematic analysis
Findings:
COVID-19 reminded older 2SLGBTQ+ adults of the AIDS epidemic, and the shift to technology for social connection hindered their ability to stay in touch with community
Participants felt “left behind” by the rapid development of new technologies and features, and found expenses and user unfriendliness barriers to access to technology
Technology felt synonymous with connection
Technology overuse had negative impacts on mental & physical health (depression, sedentary lifestyle, posture and muscle aches)