Social Isolation among Elderly People in the Digital Era: A Sociological Analysis of Aged Care in Australia

Abstract

Nowadays, it is understood through various resources, that there is a significant increase in the elderly population worldwide and it has become the talk of many social platforms domestically and globally. In Australia alone, there is an increasing demand for residential aged care centres to take care of such increased elderly population. But it is evident that such established centres often fail to provide service to the maximum, to fulfil psychosocial needs of increased elderly population in particular. Even though the digital technology has significantly transformed communication and social interactions, there is a huge gap prevailing between the social platforms and elderly population. Opportunities in using digital platforms are not provided equally among the elderly population and they are unfamiliar with such digital tools due to the lack of basic skills and not being tutored with sufficient tutoring support. This study examines the relationship between social isolation and digital inequality among elderly populations residing in aged care centres in Australia. A qualitative research approach was used based on observational experiences collected from a residential aged care facility in Melbourne, Australia. It apparently shows the day-to-day lives of such elderly population is being socially disconnected and excluded from using technology. This issue has been analysed using key sociological perspectives including Durkheim’s theory of social integration, conflict theory and symbolic interactionism to better understand the nature and characteristics of the issue. Thus, this study aims to provide an understanding that centres engaged in taking care of elderly people must link social and emotional wellbeing with digital platforms to provide a quality service.