The association between digital technology use and depression among older people in China: a moderated mediation model.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To investigate the association among multidimensional (Digital engagement, DE; Digital devices, DD; and Digital purpose, DP) digital technology use and depression in older Chinese, considering social participation as a mediator and physical activity level (PAL) as a moderator.

Methods

Data on 5,744 participants (aged≥60) were extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2020 dataset. Depression was assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Logistic regression examined the association between digital technology use and depression. The PROCESS program's Model 4 evaluated the mediating role of social participation, while Model 7 assessed the moderating role of PAL.

Results

Digital technology use was negat

SUBMITTER: Wu Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11847860 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature