Identifying Factors Affecting Life Satisfaction of Elderly Adults in the ICT Era

Identifying Factors Affecting Life Satisfaction of Elderly Adults in the ICT Era

The present research investigates the factors influencing the elderly adults' life satisfaction in the era of information and communication technology (ICT). Specifically, we examine whether the elderly individuals' digital literacy skills (i.e., ability to use PCs, ability to use mobile devices, and ability to distinguish information) and perceptions (i.e., perceived usefulness of digital technology, self-efficacy in using digital devices, and social interaction) predict their life satisfaction. To answer the research question, we performed a hierarchical multiple regression analysis using the elderly Korean adults aged 55 or older. The results indicate that (1) females (vs. males) are more satisfied with their life; (2) the higher individuals' age, education and monthly household income, the higher their life satisfaction; and (3) their perceived usefulness of digital technology, self-efficacy in using digital devices, social interaction, and ability to distinguish information are positively associated with life satisfaction. The findings provide important implications to enhance life satisfaction of the elderly adults in the ICT era.