Using Two-Step Cluster Analysis and Latent Class Analysis to Construct a Typology of Internet Users Among Community-Dwelling Older People

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study utilizes data, spanning 2016-2021, from the Belgian Ageing Studies and presents a typology of older internet users based on nine internet activities. Two-step Cluster Analysis and Latent Class Analysis revealed three groups: (1) “Basic users” primarily engage in information search and mailing, (2) “Allrounders” participate in nearly all internet activities and (3) “Selective users” are intermediary, predominantly using the internet for information search, mailing, e-banking and communication with (grand)children. These clusters varied in sociodemographic characteristics, with “Allrounders” being younger, more educated, wealthier and predominantly male, compared to “Selective users” and “Basic users,” respectively.