Ocio Digital Intergeneracional. Evolución antes, durante y después de la COVID-19

This thesis analyzes how digital devices have transformed shared leisure activities between grandparents and grandchildren aged 6 to 12 years in northern Spain, particularly in the context of the pandemic. The study is based on the premise that leisure, historically valued as a source of well-being, learning, and social cohesion, has undergone a profound transformation with the advent of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). Digital leisure, understood as the set of recreational activities mediated by electronic devices and digital platforms, has become a fundamental tool for maintaining and strengthening intergenerational bonds, especially when physical contact was restricted due to COVID-19. The study adopts a quantitative approach, using a validated ad hoc questionnaire administered to a sample of grandparents from eight provinces in northern Spain at three points in time: before (N=357), during (N=272), and after (N=137) the lockdown. The results show that before the pandemic, face-to-face and traditional activities (such as games, reading, cooking, and excursions) predominated, while during the lockdown, there was a significant increase in digital leisure, with intensive use of video calls, instant messaging, and social networks to maintain communication and share activities. After the pandemic, although face-to-face activities were partially resumed, digital leisure remained a common and complementary practice, consolidating its role in the daily lives of grandparents and grandchildren. The analysis reveals that shared digital leisure fosters mutual learning, social inclusion, and the emotional well-being of both generations. Grandparents highlight improvements in their digital autonomy, the strengthening of their relationship with their grandchildren, and a sense of usefulness and belonging. However, the study also identifies challenges, such as the digital divide, the lack of technological skills among older adults, and the risk of excessive device use. The thesis proposes various strategies to promote intergenerational digital leisure, such as digital literacy programs, joint workshops, the creation of adapted digital resources, and the design of inclusive applications. The importance of collaboration among educational, family, and social institutions is emphasized to ensure equitable access to ICT and to promote the digital integration of all generations. In conclusion, intergenerational digital leisure emerges as a key tool for strengthening family cohesion, promoting active aging, and building more inclusive communities in contemporary digital society. The research underscores the need to continue exploring this field, designing policies and programs that facilitate access to and meaningful use of technologies for all ages, and highlights the value of shared digital leisure as a driver of well-being, learning, and intergenerational solidarity.

Grantor dc:publisher

Universidad de La Rioja (España)

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Corral Fernández, Luis

Contributors dc:contributor

• Valdemoros San Emeterio, María Ángeles (null)
• Alonso Ruiz, Rosa Ana (null)

Statement dc:rights

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Language dc:language

spa

Repository record dc:identifier

https://dialnet.unirioja.es/servlet/oaites?codigo=394334

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dialnet.unirioja.es:TES0000023201