The Association Between the Digital Divide and Health Inequalities Among Older Adults in China: Nationally Representative Cross-Sectional Survey.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Health inequalities among older adults become increasingly pronounced as aging progresses. In the digital era, some researchers argue that access to and use of digital technologies may contribute to or exacerbate these existing health inequalities. Conversely, other researchers believe that digital technologies can help mitigate these disparities.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the digital divide and health inequality among older adults and to offer recommendations for promoting health equity.

Methods

Data were obtained from the 2018 and 2020 waves of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. Physical, mental, and subjective health were assessed using the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) scale, the Instrumental

SUBMITTER: Wu M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11780301 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature