Moderating effect of digital device use on the relationship between social exclusion and depression among older Korean adults: A quantitative study using data from the 2020 national survey of older people

Purpose This study aimed to investigate the moderating effect of digital device use on the relationship between social exclusion and depression among older adults. Methods A secondary data analysis was conducted using the 2020 National Survey of Older Koreans. Data from 5,656 young-old adults (aged 65~74 years) and 4,274 old-old adults (aged≥75 years) were analyzed. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and hierarchical regression analyses were employed. Results Social exclusion was positively associated with depression in both age groups. Digital device use significantly moderated this relationship in the old-old group (β=-.06, p=.001), attenuating the effect of social exclusion on depression. Conclusion These findings indicate that digital device use may serve as an effective means of alleviating and preventing depression among older adults. The results support the development of policies aimed at enhancing digital literacy for this population.