Aging & Social Change: Fourteenth Interdisciplinary Conference

Abstract

In recent years, the issue of misinformation has become an increasingly serious problem around the globe. The emergence of false information is not confined to the political arena; it also encompasses commercial marketing and public health issues. Older adults are becoming the primary victims of misinformation. Due to the digital divide and potential cognitive decline, they face challenges in identifying and verifying information. Therefore, this paper focuses on reducing the misinformation and enhancing people’s ability to recognize misinformation. This study explores how older adults cope with the issue of misinformation on social media. It has been found through the application of hermeneutic phenomenological method to learn the primary motivation of seniors, that they spread false information on social media regardless of its validity, but rather to maintain interpersonal social relationships. In particular, they are sensitive to health-related messages, and misinformation often exploits this by spreading under the guise of “concern for health.” Moreover, the digital literacy education of older adults faces serious challenges. The study suggests that the absence of educational resources and systems leaves them uncertain and uneasy when dealing with the unfamiliar world of the Internet. The research also finds that a lack of interest is a huge barrier to improving media literacy among older adults. It is suggested that we can enhance a person’s digital literacy by offering comprehensive community services to older adults so they are able to develop a positive attitude towards online social interaction.