Socioeconomic Disparities in Information and Communication Technology Access Among Older Adults in Indonesia

Indonesia has entered an ageing population phase, where older adults are comprising a significant demographic group. The use of information and communication technology (ICT) among older adults has increased over the past 5 years, especially in mobile phone and internet access. In 2024, 49.27% of older adults used mobile phones and 26.42% accessed the internet, while computer use remained very low and declining. This trend indicates a gradual involvement of older adults in digital transformation. However, access to ICT is unequally distributed and strongly influenced by individual and socioeconomic characteristics. Younger older adults (ages 60–69), without disabilities, living in urban areas, and from higher-income households have significantly higher access to digital technology. In contrast, the oldest-old, those with disabilities, rural residents, and low-income groups show substantially lower levels of ICT engagement. This digital divide is particularly pronounced in economic terms. For example, internet access among the top 20% expenditure group is five times higher than among the bottom 40%. Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive efforts to expand digital literacy, ensure inclusive access, and promote family and community support. Preparing younger generations for healthy and tech-literate aging is essential for fostering an inclusive, empowered ageing society in the future.