Project results

• A review presenting the main scientific contributions (papers published in specialized journals, reports from public and private organizations, surveys) on the topic of cultural, digital, and cultural-digital consumption among the elderly population.

The topics examined include: the importance of culture among the elderly from emotional, cognitive, and relational perspectives; the “digital divide” between the elderly and younger generations; and the opportunities and challenges arising by the implementation of devices integrating culture and technology.

• An Excel-based matrix that organizes datasets containing individual-level information on cultural and digital consumption among the elderly in Italy, divided by subcategories.

For digital consumption, these included: Internet access; AI, technology, and the metaverse; audiobooks; ICT skills; computers; eBooks; messaging; smartphones and tablets; smartwatches; social media; streaming; and general internet usage.
For cultural consumption, subcategories included: libraries; cinema; classical music concerts; other concerts; other cultural events; books; museums, exhibitions, and heritage; newspapers and magazines; radio; performing arts; television; and video games.
Additionally, questions were classified based on their macro-objectives: scale of demand, expenditure, individuals' propensity to consume and preferences.

The matrix can be consulted as an online dashboard on the website of Osservatorio Culturale del Piemonte or can be downloaded in Excel format.

• A companion report providing more extensive details on the previous datasets, including a thorough description of the sample and information about accessibility and the user licenses.

• An Excel-based matrix that summarizes the supply of technological products, services and initiatives to favor participation in cultural activities of the elderly.

In particular, the analysis focused on three regions: Piedmont, Emilia-Romagna and Puglia. Due to the limited number of projects specifically targeting an elderly audience, the research also considered projects initially designed for this demographic but subsequently aimed at a broader audience.

The resulting database includes details on the geographical indication, delivery method (local, online, mixed), years of project life, primary target audience, and a brief description of the activity.

The matrix can be consulted as an online dashboard on the website of Osservatorio Culturale del Piemonte or can be downloaded in Excel format.

• A survey to explore the cultural-digital offerings of national and local institutions. This review was conducted through direct engagement with regional administrations, cultural observatories, local foundations, and libraries, with a strong emphasis on Piedmont.

The dimensions explored by the questionnaire included: a list of digital and tech-driven projects, services or products carried out in the last 3 years; whether these initiatives specifically targeted individuals over 60 or other audiences (e.g children and families, the young, wider audience); the motivations which led to propose and implement them; since these tech-driven services have been available; the significance of these offerings compared to the overall cultural offer. Or, in the absence of digital services and products, what are the main reasons for the lack of implementation, and prospects for future implementations.

The report can also be consulted on the website of Osservatorio Culturale del Piemonte.

• A document outlining the main policy recommendations derived from previous outputs, considering both the consumption and offerings of digital culture, as well as the collection and organization of data.

The lack of organized data makes it hard to design effective interventions for older adults. Gathering this information is crucial to identify their hidden needs, often unspoken due to unfamiliarity with digital opportunities. Projects should be designed specifically for seniors, considering mobility and physical challenges rather than adapting general initiatives.

Cultural centers and libraries are encouraged to offer innovative experiences, such as virtual reality and immersive activities, to support seniors’ cognitive and emotional well-being. Digital projects can also connect generations and foster family collaboration. Although many older people prefer traditional media, gradual and familiar digital approaches can help them transition to new tools and even become active content creators.

To achieve these goals, a shared strategic vision is needed, with collaboration between public institutions, private organizations, and local communities, as well as pilot initiatives based on real data and feedback. Improving digital literacy among the elderly is essential, and community centers, associations, and lifelong learning programs are ideal for making digital culture accessible and inclusive.