Active Aging: Providing an Age-Friendly Digital Environment for Older Russians

Abstract

While Russia has been implementing a policy of active aging over the past decade, stereotypes of passive old age, agism, and structural/age-related inequalities persist in real practices. Against the backdrop of the active digitalization of Russian society, public services, and ways of social participation, the social deprivation of older people is beginning to intersect with digital exclusion. This article discusses the opportunities and limitations of modern digital resources for achieving the goals of active aging. It examines the main needs for social interaction, autonomy, lifelong learning among older Russians, and the digital opportunities for their well-being. The study also analyzes the quality and accessibility of popular mobile applications and websites that offer opportunities for communication and social participation, education, and healthcare for older Russians. The findings reveal both potential and substantial barriers, including paid subscriptions, language obstacles, and a lack of awareness among older users. Recommendations are proposed for creating age-friendly digital services, as well as a digital policy that can contribute to older Russians’ social inclusion and participation.

Keywords

• older Russians
• active aging
• age-friendly digital environment
• digital literacy
• s ocial inclusion
• digital inequality

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