Why some older people are rejecting technology.

Despite increasing numbers of older people accessing the internet a digital divide still exists. And may become more problematic as more vital services move online.

Following interviews with older adults, researchers discovered resistance to technology is not primarily rooted in accessibility issues.

Some older people see online tools as arduous and time consuming. They feel online services are placing a burden on them to be experts in lots of things.

They are concerned about security, and getting things wrong, putting their savings at risk.

But most of all they worry about the negative implications these technologies may have on their communities.

They worry that online shopping takes business from local shops, threatening town centres. And they fear that if they don't use the bank or post office people may lose their jobs.

Some older people also reject online shopping because they value the social aspect of shopping in person, as it helps prevent loneliness.

This suggests that getting older adults online is not a matter of tweaking a few apps or websites.

It will require addressing wider societal implications of technologies.