RETHINKING ELDERCARE IN A DIGITAL AGE - Internet Use and Shifting Attitudes in China - Abstract citation ID igaf122.4358

Sep 29, 2026

Uploaded by SANS

This study examines how internet use relates to older adults’ attitudes and preferences about eldercare in China. Using the 2020 wave of the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), it tests links between internet access, usage frequency, number of online activities, and digital proficiency and two outcomes: perceived responsibility for eldercare and preferred care arrangements. Internet access predicts less support for formal care, while online engagement supports shared responsibility and preference for formal-related options.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages1

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Study focus: internet use and eldercare attitudes

Data source and sample

Methods: multinomial logistic regression

Key findings on responsibility for eldercare

Key findings on care preferences

Implications for aging societies

1308 Innovation in Aging, 2025, Vol. 9, No. S2 Abstract citation ID: igaf122.4358 RETHINKING ELDERCARE IN A DIGITAL AGE: INTERNET USE AND SHIFTING ATTITUDES IN CHINA Mengting Li1, Zhiyong Lin2, and Yibo Li1, 1. Renmin University of China, Beijing, Beijing, China (People’s Republic), 2. University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, United States This study examines how internet use is associated with older adults’ attitudes and preferences regarding eldercare in China. Specifically, it explores whether internet access and usage patterns are linked to views on who should be primarily responsible for caring for older adults and to preferences for informal, formal, or mixed care arrangements. Data come from the 2020 wave of the China Longitudinal Aging Social Survey (CLASS), a nationally representative survey of community-dwelling adults aged 60 and above. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between four indicators of internet use (access, frequency, number of online activities, and digital proficiency) and two outcome measures: (1) perceived responsibility for eldercare (family, government/society, or shared), and (2) personal care preferences (family-based caregiving, community-based services or institutional care) . Internet access was associated with lower support for formal care but greater endorsement of shared responsibility, compared to family-only care. Greater online activities and digital proficiency were positively associated with support for shared responsibility. In terms of care preferences, internet access was negatively associated with preference for community-based services and institutional care, whereas online activity and proficiency were positively associated with such preferences. Digitally engaged individuals were more likely to consider formal care than non-users, though family care remained the most preferred option. Internet use is linked to more nuanced and flexible views on eldercare among older Chinese adults. Digital engagement may play a role in reshaping traditional expectations and expanding consideration of formal care in aging societies.

FAQs

What does the study analyze about internet use and eldercare in China?

It examines how internet access and different usage patterns are associated with older adults’ attitudes and preferences about eldercare, including who should be responsible and what types of care arrangements are preferred.

Which internet-use indicators and outcomes are used in the analysis?

The study uses four internet indicators (access, frequency, number of online activities, and digital proficiency) and two outcomes: perceived responsibility for eldercare and personal care preferences for family-based, community-based, or institutional care.

How is internet access related to support for formal care and shared responsibility?

Internet access is associated with lower support for formal care but greater endorsement of shared responsibility compared with family-only responsibility. Online activities and digital proficiency show positive associations with shared responsibility.

Sep 29, 2026

Uploaded by SANS