The increasing need for the development of new solutions for older adults in order to support the independent living at home is perspicuous. The rapid development of information and communication technology will provide capable solutions for maintaining of life quality. Computerized technology is devoted to improving our quality of life. By the way, here is a segment of the population who do not have access to the technology in any way or form because technophobia. The aim of the pilot study was to translate measurement instrument of technophobia “Technophobia test” and collect data needed for analysis and adaptation process. The following research tasks were completed: upon examination of the available literature, the most accepted instruments for measuring technophobia are the Computer Anxiety Rating Scale (Form C), the Computer Thoughts Survey (Form C) and the General Attitudes towards Computers Scale (Form C). In Latvia, up to now such research has not been carried out. Participants (62) were middle-aged and older persons, aged from 45 to 87 years. The descriptive statistic parameters of Technophobia test subscales and the reliability statistical parameter Cronbach's alpha were calculated and average level of technophobia was assessed.

This study examined levels of technophobia in a sample of 124 middle -aged and older adults who were Vidzeme region residents in Latvia. Technophobia was assessed using Rosen and Weil's Measuring Technophobia Instruments, which determine anxiety, cognitions and attitudes towards computer technology. Technophobia levels were tested for differences between the middle-adults and older adults, and the genders. By analyzing the correlation coefficient between women got the data that between age and anxiety, thoughts and attitudes there are weak positive and statistically significant correlation. Between men statistically significant correlation was obtained only between age and anxiety, but between age and the age and thoughts and attitudes were no statistically significant correlation. In Latvia is not carried out such a study.

No abstract