Older Adults in Households and e-Government services in Saudi Arabia, Hail City: : A digital Divide Study of Adoption, Use and Diffusion.

Abstract

The subjects of ICTs adoption and e-Government services have been widely investigated by researchers. It is an indication of the significant roles that can be brought to individuals and societies by ICTs and e-Government. Enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of governmental services being delivered to citizens (G2C) is the ultimate goal. However, many groups within societies are considered to be benefiting less from e-Government, as they are less receptive to ICTs. This has created a phenomenon known as digital divide. Amongst these groups are the older adults; therefore, this study attempts to detect and explain the challenges existing for elderly when using e-Government services in a developing country of the Middle East, in this case Saudi Arabia. The study uses a quantitative approach in which survey questionnaires will be distributed to households’ residents (50 years old and above) in Hail city. The study will make a positive contribution to the existing literature on e-Government adoption, older adults and related body of knowledge. It will also produce relevant data that can be of assistance to Government policy makers and to the ICT industry.