DIGITAL INCLUSION OF OLDER ADULTS MEDIATED BY WHATSAPP: CITIZENSHIP AND BELONGING IN CONTEXT OF SOCIAL ISOLATION

Abstract

Population aging and the increasing digitalization of everyday life have reshaped forms of communication, social interaction, and citizenship. In this context, older adults have progressively occupied digital spaces, particularly through WhatsApp, a platform widely used for its practicality and communicative potential. This qualitative and exploratory study examines the role of WhatsApp as a tool for digital inclusion, citizenship, and belonging among older adults. The research is based on a bibliographic review and documentary analysis of academic studies, normative documents, and international human rights instruments related to aging, digital technologies, and the rights of older persons. The findings indicate that the application contributes to maintaining family, community, and religious ties, expands opportunities for communication, and relates to digital citizenship and the strengthening of social participation, especially in contexts of social isolation, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study concludes that the digital inclusion of older adults constitutes an important dimension of autonomy, human dignity, and social inclusion in contemporary society.