In Conversation on CBC Radio: Screen Time and Aging

Public conversations about aging and technology are increasingly focused on how digital habits are evolving across generations. Nicole Dalmer was recently featured on The Current, where she contributed to a national discussion on rising screen use among older adults.

The segment explored shifting family dynamics, including instances where adult children are expressing concern about their parents’ phone use, alongside data showing significant increases in smartphone ownership and social media engagement among adults aged 65 and older. Within this context, Nicole offered important insight into why these changes are occurring.

Drawing on her research in aging and technology, she emphasized that many older adults are not new to digital tools, but have engaged with them across their working lives. As a result, current patterns of use reflect continuity rather than sudden dependence. She also highlighted how everyday activities—such as banking, accessing services, and communication—are increasingly structured around digital platforms, making screen use a practical and often necessary part of daily life.

By situating older adults’ technology use within broader social and infrastructural shifts, Nicole Dalmer’s contribution challenged simplified narratives of “addiction” and instead pointed to the normalization of digital engagement across the life course.

The full segment is available through CBC Listen Radio: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-63-the-current/clip/16205500-quebecs-bill-21-baby-boomers-addicted-phones