Digital Literacy and its Association with Subjective Health Status and Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors among Korean Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Advances in medical technology have extended life expectancy, leading to an aging population worldwide. In an information society, digital literacy is crucial for enhancing quality of life, especially among older adults. Their perceived health significantly influences their social interactions and well-being. Internet use improves older adults’ health by providing better access to health information, promoting healthy lifestyles, and fostering social interactions.
Objective:
This study aims to investigate the impact of digital literacy on the subjective health status and healthy lifestyle behaviors of older people.
Methods:
Data of 8,664 respondents (aged 65 and older) from the 2020 National Survey of the Elderly were analyzed. Digital literacy was measured based on the use of information technology devices (ITDs), difficulty using online information, and inconvenience of ITDs. Statistical analyses were conducted using SAS version 9.4, including the Rao-Scott chi-square test and multiple regression analysis.
Results:
Those with above-average ITD utilization (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.50-1.99) and less difficulty using online information (aOR=1.41, 95% CI: 1.24-1.61) were more likely to perceive themselves as healthy. Conversely, high difficulty scores in using ITDs correlated with lower perceived health (aOR=0.84, 95% CI: 0.82-0.87). Moreover, high ITD utilization predicted engagement in healthy lifestyle behaviors (aOR=1.51, 95% CI: 1.33-1.72), whereas high difficulty scores predicted lower engagement (aOR=0.94, 95% CI: 0.92-0.97).
Conclusions:
This study underscores the significant association between digital literacy and improved health outcomes among older adults. Promotion of digital literacy and relevant policies is essential to help older adults effectively navigate health information online, thereby improving their quality of life and overall health. Clinical Trial: None
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