Hey, found an article about the benefits of technology with regards to old age. It's written by Simon Roberts (2009) on behalf of the International Longevity Centre UK and Intel Corporation.
http://ilcuk.org.uk/files/pdf_pdf_112.pdf
While it's not directly relevant to Media Convergence in the subject matter, the introduction puts forward some interesting thoughts about the Generalisation of technophobia in old people. I've included a few quotes regarding the issue.
It's widely believed, at any rate, that a large percentage of older people find it harder to adapt to ever changing technologies, and in particular, to keep up with the fast paced changes new technologies bring. This, if true, is an example of a challenge to society in regards to media convergence, as it segregates and discriminates against a potential audience. How does it do this? Because the potential audience, generally, will either not be able to engage with the multi-platform content (E.G Smart phone apps or the internet) OR will just not feel inclined due to not having the confidence or the knowledge to access additional content.
"More often than not we speak on behalf of older people... the sweeping generalisation or the personal anecdote." (Roberts, 2009)
Conversely, it is a generalisation - a stereotype. Stereotypes are not always true, and are mostly false and have little evidence. Again, this poses a challenge to society - If it's widely believed and accepted that older generations can't cope with the rapid technological change, then developers of said technologies risk over looking them entirely, viewing them almost as a lost cause.
"Sweeping generalisations by their very nature mask differences of opinion and experience, and in that way close down discussions. They do not allow for the existence of difference. Generalisations paint over the messy realities of everyday life." (Roberts, 2009)
~James
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