Technology and Ageing—Theoretical Propositions from Science and Technology Studies

Abstract

In this chapter, I explore new grounds for theorizing ageing and digital technology. I do so by summarizing insights from critical studies of science and technology, i.e. the field of Science and Technology Studies (STS), in relation to ageing. The discussion revolves around three major insights that can be derived from the STS literature on ageing and technology: (i) that ageing and technology mutually shape each other, (ii) that older persons often are agents and co-creators in innovation processes and that (iii) design paternalism still often leads to ageist assumptions in technology projects. The sections are illustrated with empirical examples and together provide pertinent insights into the relevance of digital technologies in relation to theories of ageing and gerontechnology.