OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the effects of older Chinese adults' online behaviors (including recent access to the Internet and duration of Internet use) on their current health habits and health status. Health status comprised self-rated physical and mental health.

METHODS

Interviewees aged over 60 years who participated consecutively in the 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2020 China Family Panel Studies were selected. Ordinary least squares and ordered logit regression analyses were used to analyze the associations between older adults' online behaviors and their health habits and status. Propensity score matching analysis was employed to mitigate selection bias. Structural equation modeling was conducted to test the robustness of the findings and to explore whether the associations between recent and continued Internet use and their health were mediated by older adults' prioritization of online entertainment, learning, communication, and lifestyle-related activities.

RESULTS

The results showed that Internet access among older adults was positively associated with health habits, increased self-rated health levels, and improved physical and mental health. Continuous Internet use among older adults may be a predictor of better mental health. While prioritization of online life style could improve physical health, prioritization of online communication might be prejudicial to acquiring health habits.

CONCLUSION

Internet access may support healthy aging by encouraging older adults to adopt healthier lifestyles. However, the varied effects of different types of online behavior underscore the importance of designing targeted digital interventions rather than blanket promotion of technology adoption.