The impact of internet use in the digital age on the subjective well-being of older adults -- an empirical study based on CGSS2021 data

Abstract

The main objective of this study is the effect of Internet use on the subjective well-being of older adults. Based on the China General Social Survey 2021 cross-sectional data, 11 variables were selected from the perspective of sociology and demography. These variables include one dependent variable, three independent variables, and seven control variables. A binary logistic model was used to study the effects of the three dimensions of Internet use in the digital age (independent variables) on the subjective well-being of the elderly (dependent variable) with the elderly as the research object (N = 1836). The results of the study revealed that Internet use (P < 0.001, Exp(B) = 1.567), information sources (P < 0.001, Exp(B) = 1.695), and frequency of Internet use (P < 0.001, Exp(B) = 0.858) of the elderly had significant effects on their subjective well-being. To improve the subjective well-being of the elderly in the digital era, this paper proposes the following suggestions and countermeasures: 1) strengthen the digital infrastructure for the elderly and create an “Internet + elderly” model; 2) formulate relevant protective policies to promote Internet use among the elderly; 3) regulate the frequency of Internet access to maintain a balance between the virtual and real world. Conclusion: A thoughtful digitalization approach for the elderly can ensure they keep up with the times, bridge the “digital divide” between generations, extend their working lives, and enhance their subjective well-being. This study has some limitations. The object of the study is only the elderly in China, while the elderly in every country in the world have certain differences in subjective or objective conditions.