Internet Use and Cognitive Engagement in Older Adulthood

Abstract

Internet use is increasingly ubiquitous among older adults and may buffer against declines in cognitive engagement. We examined longitudinal associations between three types of internet use (media, social, and instrumental) and two indicators of cognitive engagement (Openness to Experience and Need for Cognition) in a nationally representative sample of Dutch older adults (N = 2,922 adults aged 65–99) assessed annually from 2008 to 2017. Preregistered analyses indicated that older adults who were more cognitively engaged used the internet more frequently, especially for instrumental purposes like search and email. Those who increased in their use of online media declined less in Need for Cognition than their peers. These associations remained constant over time even as internet use became more common. We benchmarked our findings against null associations between cognitive engagement and TV/radio use and tested associations in younger comparison samples. Findings bolster our understanding of the role that technology use plays in personality development and aging.