Summary
Featuring research from members of the Rural Aging Research Team, Rural Gerontechnology examines the interconnection between aging in rural communities and information and communication technology (ICT). Studies explore the ways in which technology can support rural older adults as well as the challenges of interacting with and using ICT in rural and remote communities.
Publications and Projects
RuDiCare - Rural Digital Care: Strengthening the inclusion of older people in digital care services in rural municipalities
Principal Investigator: Barbara Fersch, Associate Professor, Southern Denmark University
Advisory Board Member: Mark Skinner, Professor, Trent University
Summary: The RuDiCare project aims to enhance digital inclusion in health and welfare services among older people in rural areas. Dr. Mark Skinner is a collaborating member of the RuDiCare advisory Board.
"I've got a lot of other things I do": The nuances of digital engagement among older people
Authors: Tabytha Wells, Elizabeth Russell (2025)
Canadian Journal on Aging, 44(1)
Summary: This study explores the experiences of older adults who do not use digital technology in their daily lives. Findings highlight the importance of addressing digital concerns, providing effective digital skill learning opportunities, and maintaining offline alternatives to primarily online services.
On the triple exclusion of older adults during COVID-19: Technology, digital literacy and social isolation
Authors: Amber Zapletal, Tabytha Wells, Elizabeth Russell, Mark Skinner (2023)
Social Sciences & Humanities Open, 8(1)
Summary: Expanding on a prior study conducted pre-pandemic (Wells & Russell, 2025), this paper presents an exploratory analysis to understand how older adults’ relationship with digital technology may have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings highlight the resilience of older adults and their ability to adapt to an increasingly digital world, while also recognizing the importance of supporting those who are not digitally engaged.
Rural gerontechnology: Arts-based insights into rural ageing and the use of technology
Authors: An Kosurko, Mark Skinner, Rachel Herron, Rachel J. Bar, Alisa Grigorovich, Pia Kontos, Verena Menec (2020)
Book Chapter in M. Skinner, R. Winterton, & K. Walsh (Eds.), Rural Gerontology
Summary: This chapter outlines an arts-based empirical project to demonstrate how the expansion of a digital dance program (i.e., Baycrest National Ballet School Sharing Dance Seniors program) provides insights into the use of technology to support social connectivity in ageing rural communities.
