The COVID-19 pandemic has not only brought health crises but also an overwhelming influx of information, much of it misleading. This so-called ‘infodemic’ has especially impacted senior citizens, a group particularly vulnerable to misinformation, which piqued my research interest on the topic. As the world turned to digital platforms for information, seniors in Vietnam faced unique challenges in distinguishing between credible information and falsehoods.
The Impact of Information Formats and Content
One of the significant issues identified is how the format and content of information affect seniors’ perceptions. Seniors were found to be particularly susceptible to misinformation when it came from sources claiming to be expert voices. A notable example is a social media influencer who presented unverified health advice as expert recommendations. Despite lacking credible qualifications, this influencer’s advice was trusted and shared within senior circles, demonstrating the importance of scrutinizing the credentials of purported experts.
Emotional stories also played a role. Seniors were more likely to believe and share articles that tugged at their emotions, such as tales of miraculous recoveries using unproven remedies. The emotional appeal often overshadowed critical thinking, making misinformation more convincing. Moreover, translated health articles from foreign sources were trusted more, despite potential biases in translation that could distort the original message.
Visuals, including images and videos, further influenced the reception of information. Seniors showed a higher trust in content that featured visuals, even when these visuals were manipulated. This reliance on images and videos underscores the need for seniors to develop skills to verify the authenticity of such content.
Trust in Social Media and News Sources
The study also highlighted how trust in social media sources affects seniors’ reception of information. While many seniors rely on mainstream media for updates, this trust is not always matched by their ability to critically evaluate news. Some seniors preferred general news sites over mainstream media, which often aggregate news without thorough verification, increasing the risk of encountering misinformation.
Personalization algorithms on social media platforms also play a role. These algorithms suggest content based on users’ past interactions, potentially creating ‘filter bubbles’ where seniors only see information that aligns with their existing beliefs. This can reinforce biases and limit exposure to diverse viewpoints.
Influence of Social Groups and Peers
Online chat groups, which have become prominent during the pandemic, also contributed to the spread of misinformation. Seniors often participate in these groups for various needs, including information exchange. However, the information in these groups is difficult to verify and can easily include falsehoods.
Key opinion leaders, whether celebrities or well-known figures, significantly influence seniors’ trust in information. Many seniors followed advice from these figures without verifying their credibility, turning to unverified sources for COVID-19 information.
Addressing the Challenges
The findings underscore the urgent need to improve digital literacy among senior citizens. Seniors need better tools to critically evaluate information, recognize trustworthy sources, and understand social media algorithms. Tailored digital literacy programs should focus on these aspects, helping seniors navigate the complexities of the digital world and reducing their susceptibility to misinformation.
The pandemic has accelerated seniors’ reliance on digital platforms, highlighting the importance of equipping them with the skills to handle online information effectively. Ensuring that seniors can critically assess digital content will help protect them from misinformation and improve their overall well-being in an increasingly connected world.
In conclusion, enhancing digital literacy among seniors is crucial. By providing targeted support and training, we can help them navigate the digital landscape more effectively, making them less vulnerable to misinformation and more engaged in the digital society.
Reference
Ly-Le, T. M., & Le, V. T. (2024). Navigating the infodemic: Assessing digital literacy and misinformation vulnerability among senior citizens in Vietnam during COVID-19. Health & New Media Research, 8(2), 3-11. https://doi.org/10.22720/hnmr.2023.00052