Brits are now more reluctant to adopt new technology (Image: Getty)
Four in 10 people say they’re fatigued by technology and reluctant to learn anything new.
In a recent survey, four out of ten individuals expressed feeling fatigued by technology, showing a hesitation to embrace new advancements.
The research revealed that 37% of respondents perceive that technology—be it apps, gadgets, or services—is evolving at a pace that outstrips their ability to keep up. Consequently, more adults report feeling overwhelmed rather than excited by the rapid progression of technological change.
Among the 2,000 adults surveyed, 35% admitted to feeling so disconnected from the digital world at times that they choose to avoid engaging with it altogether.
This reluctance can lead to tangible consequences. Approximately 12% of participants mentioned difficulties in contacting their general practitioner due to online procedures. Additionally, 6% encountered issues accessing their bank accounts at crucial times, and 5% faced penalties after missing online deadlines.
The study, sponsored by healthcare provider Abbott, highlighted that when trying out new apps, devices, or technologies, 41% of people tend to feel confused or anxious about making mistakes.
Of the 43% of people who have medical or wellness needs that could be managed with digital tools like apps or devices, such as those for diabetes or asthma, only 19% are actually using them. A quarter of those not using these tools cited skepticism about their effectiveness as the reason for their reluctance.
The global healthcare company has partnered with Strictly star Shirley Ballas and her mother Audrey Rich in this video, to encourage the nation to get curious about technology designed to help us live better.
Shirley Ballas said: “In dance, you’re always learning new steps, and it can feel overwhelming at times. But you don’t stop, you keep going. It’s the same with technology.
“I’ve spent my whole career telling people not to be afraid of learning something new. It turns out that applies just as much to technology as it does to the dancefloor.
“Staying open and taking small steps can make all the difference, especially when it comes to your health.”
On the flip side, those who currently use apps to help manage health needs expressed a range of benefits from doing so, including feeling more in control of their condition, finding it easier to track symptoms, medication, or appointments and improved confidence in managing their condition. A fifth wish they had started using it sooner.
Jenny Boulton, who lives with Type 2 diabetes, said: “When I first considered using a device to track my glucose levels, I was worried I wouldn’t understand the technology.
“But I was surprised by how easy it was to use and how quickly it helped me see how food and daily routines affect my glucose levels.
“Having that real-time insight has given me much more confidence and control.”
Shirley Ballas has teamed up with Abbott to raise awareness of how technology can be helpful (Image: Abbott)
Suki Bangar, diabetes specialist nurse and medical educator from Abbott, which manufactures Libre CGM systems that help people living with diabetes monitor their glucose levels, said: “The technology available to support the four million people living with Type 2 diabetes in the UK has advanced significantly, particularly with tools like continuous glucose monitors.
“When people are empowered to use them, it can help them better understand how their bodies respond to things that affect glucose levels in real time.
“I’ve seen firsthand how impactful that knowledge can be in supporting more informed decisions and helping people feel more in control of their condition.”
