LAUSR

Abstract Background and Objectives Media discourses have the power to construct and perpetuate positive and negative aging images and influence public and individuals’ attitudes. This study aims to critically examine the media portrayal of older persons’ everyday information and communication technology (EICT) usage during the first and second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Research Design and Methods A total of 51 articles published in three leading German newspapers between March 2020 and November 2020 were identified from the LexisNexis academic database. Data were analyzed employing critical discourse and thematic analysis. Results EICT use was associated with youthful, consumption-orientated, and active lifestyles, while non-use was constructed as failures on the policy or individual level. The pandemic seemed to have acted as an amplifier, further exacerbating and perpetuating stereotypical, dichotomous, but also empowering aging images. Discussion and Implications Neo-liberal rational and binary distinctions of active users and non-users opened and encouraged critical discussions on positive aging trends, the concept of the third and fourth age, and aging-and-innovation discourses. Moreover, the crucial educative role of the media in raising awareness about power imbalances and reducing EICT-related ageism is stressed.