Elderly People in the Digital Cultural Environment:   Social media use, environmental stress, and intergenerational interaction

Sheng Li; Yuchen Yin; Marzudi Md Yunus

doi:10.21834/e-bpj.v10i31.6643

Authors

Sheng Li Institute for Advanced Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Yuchen Yin Teachers College, Columbia University, New York, United States
Marzudi Md Yunus Academy of Malay Studies, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21834/e-bpj.v10i31.6643

Keywords:

Digital Adaptation, Elderly Population, Social Media, Inclusive Design

Abstract

Digitalization and population aging are profoundly reshaping contemporary Chinese society, with 14.3% of internet users now aged 60 and above. This study examines elderly Chinese individuals' adaptation to the digital environment through a survey of 205 participants aged 60 and above. Findings reveal widespread basic digital usage (88.78% use smartphones) but limited advanced engagement. While intergenerational support is the primary learning channel (87.32%), significant barriers exist, including communication difficulties and psychological concerns. Digital services' age-friendliness (satisfaction 2.92/5) requires improvement, particularly in accessibility features. The study recommends enhancing age-friendly design and optimizing support systems to promote digital inclusion among the elderly.

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