Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Smartphone Use in Older Adults: A Thematic Analysis of Persian and English-Language X Platform Discussions

Smartphone use among older adults has become increasingly important, shaping social inclusion and daily life. This study examined public discussions on X (formerly Twitter) regarding smartphone use in older adults, comparing Persian-speaking and English-language communities. Tweets in English and Persian were collected from June 1 to June 30, 2024, and analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach. Six themes emerged in the English-language dataset, including digital exclusion, learning and adaptation, usability challenges, preference for simplicity, vulnerability to digital risks, and intergenerational support. Persian tweets revealed five main themes, overlapping with those identified in the English-language data, but highlighting stronger emotional and cultural dimensions, such as sentimental value in digital interactions. Overall, discussions reflected experiences ranging from empowerment to exclusion, underscoring the importance of inclusive technology design, culturally sensitive digital literacy programs, and policies addressing accessibility barriers for older users.