Factors Affecting Smartphone Overdependence among Older Adults

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to identify the factors affecting smartphone overdependence among older adults.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 179 older adults using smartphones in B metropolitan city. A multiple regression analysis was performed to identify the effect of physical activity, social support, and depression on smartphone overdependence.Results: Factors that affect smartphone overdependence among the participants were as follows: (a) purpose of using smartphone (β=.23, p=.001), (b) age (β=.23, p=.002), (c) smartphone use time (β=.20, p=.004), (d) educational level (β=−.15, p=.027), and (e) social support (β=−.14, p=.048). The model explained for 19.0% (F=9.30, p＜.001).Conclusions: The findings of this study can be used as evidence to develop intervention programs and policy measures to prevent and manage smartphone overdependence, which has negative effects on the physical and mental health of older adults.