A qualidade de vida das pessoas idosas e as novas tecnologias

Abstract

This dissertation focuses on the analysis and understanding of the impact of the new information and communication technologies on the quality of life of the elderly population, where the social intervention is concerned. Conceptually we have used different theoretical approaches which contributed to the crossing between analysis perspectives. Against this background the phenomenon of the technological progress driven by globalization presents new situations of social exclusion. Technologies occupy a significant place in everyday life and their growth has a strong impact in societies. The ageing of the population, in association with this process of change, places significant challenges to society, stressing the role these technologies may have in the quality of life of the elderly. The awareness of this concept of a multidimensional nature emphasizes the dimensions of physical, mental and social well-being, social relations, social development and participation. On an empirical level, we undertook an exploratory study, favoring an inductive approach through the interpretation and understanding of the life experiences of the participants, comparing two social intervention projects, one at the level of tele-assistance and the other of lifelong learning. Thus, the participants in the study were selected on a basis of convenience and homogenization, and we interviewed four social intervention technicians and twenty elderly persons. Data gathered were qualitatively analyzed, by means of content analysis of thematic codification, based on the description of cases and their different views. We conclude that the technologies herein studied contribute to an increase in the quality of life of the elderly, promoting their autonomy, allowing them to enhance the field of personal action, to increase their knowledge and to access information; these technologies favor social relations, foster participation, cognitive capacities and break the feelings of isolation and solitude.

Date of Award	12 Mar 2015
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Henrique Manuel Marques Joaquim (Supervisor)